Autoimmune pediatric disorders

An evaluation designed specifically for children

This first-of-its-kind profile includes only the antibodies that are pertinent to pediatric CNS disorders — all in one evaluation. The antibodies included are supported by clinical research, and the results of this testing can help with diagnosis and long-term treatment planning.

11x

MOG antibody is 11 times more common than AQP4 antibody in children

When to consider testing

Consider testing for children under 18 with suspected autoimmune encephalitis, or other autoimmune presentation such as ataxia or autoimmune encephalomyelitis, with one or more of the following:

  • Rapid onset and progression of symptoms over weeks to months
  • Behavioral changes such as unrelenting crying spells or tantrums — with or without clear cause — usually accompanied by one or more of the following: confusion, headaches, altered awareness, or movement disorder

Key testing

PCDEC | Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalopathy/CNS Disorder Evaluation, Spinal Fluid

PCDES | Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalopathy/CNS Disorder Evaluation, Serum

Phenotypic evaluations

Our pediatric autoimmune evaluation is part of an evolving approach to testing for autoimmune neurological disorders using phenotypic-specific evaluations that include multiple antibodies known for their disease association.

Unique pediatric evaluation targets relevant autoimmune/CNS antibodies

Andrew McKeon, M.B., B.Ch., M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' pediatric autoimmune/CNS testing can better guide the treatment of autoimmune neurological diseases in children. The tailored evaluation covers only biomarkers relevant to pediatric presentations of the diseases.

Learn more

Learn more about how to order this evaluation at your institution.

Articles and resources

Unique pediatric evaluation targets relevant autoimmune/CNS antibodies
October 18, 2022

Andrew McKeon, M.B., B.Ch., M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' pediatric autoimmune/CNS testing can better guide the treatment of autoimmune neurological diseases in children. The tailored evaluation covers only biomarkers relevant to pediatric presentations of the diseases.
Pediatric Autoimmune CNS Disorders Evaluation
May 27, 2020

This “Specialty Testing” webinar will address the clinical presentations, evaluation (including diagnostic antibody testing), and treatment of autoimmune pediatric CNS disorders, including encephalitides and myelopathies.