
NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum









The NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum test is a blood test that helps measure antibodies against NMDA receptors in the brain. This test helps evaluate autoimmune activity that may affect the nervous system, particularly in conditions like autoimmune encephalitis, and assists in diagnosing related neurological disorders.













Understanding NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are specialized proteins in the brain that play a critical role in learning, memory, and overall brain signaling. In some autoimmune conditions, the body mistakenly produces NMDA receptor antibodies (immune proteins) that target these receptors. This can disrupt normal brain function, leading to neurological and psychiatric symptoms such as seizures, cognitive changes, mood disturbances, or movement disorders, resulting in autoimmune encephalitis (AE) or anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. The NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum test aids in diagnosing this condition, allowing for early and precise detection, which is crucial for timely treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Your doctor may recommend the NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum test if you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of autoimmune encephalitis, such as seizures, memory problems, psychosis, or movement disorders. The test may also be advised if you have a personal or family history of autoimmune disorders, or if there is a suspicion of other conditions affecting the brain that could involve NMDA receptor antibodies. Additionally, this test can help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for autoimmune encephalitis and may assist in detecting other neurological disorders where these antibodies could be present.
No special preparation is needed for getting the NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum test done. However, be sure to inform the doctor about any medications or supplements being taken, as they may affect the test results.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.
Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.
What does NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum measure?
The NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum test measures the level of antibodies against the NR1 subunit of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the blood. These antibodies indicate that the immune system may be mistakenly targeting the brain’s NMDA receptors, leading to neurological dysfunction.
High levels of NMDA receptor antibodies may suggest autoimmune encephalitis or other antibody-mediated neurological disorders. Detection of these antibodies allows clinicians to confirm a diagnosis and initiate targeted treatment, potentially reversing or reducing neurological symptoms. Low or absent levels usually indicate that NMDA receptor autoimmunity is unlikely.





FAQs related to NMDA Receptor Antibody, Serum
- Samanta D, Lui F. Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis. [Updated 2023 Jul 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from:
- Jewett BE, Thapa B. Physiology, NMDA Receptor. [Updated 2022 Dec 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from:
Other tests
- CBC (Complete Blood Count)
- FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)
- Thyroid Profile Total (T3, T4 & TSH)
- HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin)
- PPBS (Postprandial Blood Sugar)
- Lipid Profile
- Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy)
- Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy)
- Coronavirus Covid -19 test- RT PCR
- LFT (Liver Function Test)
- KFT (Kidney Function Test)
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Uric Acid, Serum
- Vitamin B12
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein), Quantitative
- Urine C/S (Urine Culture and Sensitivity)
- Serum Electrolytes
- Serum Calcium
- Serum Creatinine
- Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)
- KFT with Electrolytes (Kidney Function Test with Electrolytes)
- Cholesterol - Total
- Hb (Hemoglobin)
- Complete Hemogram (CBC & ESR)






















