Home / Health / Immune System Hijacked Brain: A Year of Unraveling
Immune System Hijacked Brain: A Year of Unraveling
20 Nov
Summary
- Autoimmune encephalitis attacks the brain, causing confusion and memory loss.
- New culprit antibodies are being discovered, aiding diagnosis and treatment.
- Early diagnosis offers hope for recovery, though some damage may persist.
Autoimmune encephalitis is an unfathomable condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, leading to sudden and severe symptoms like confusion, memory loss, and psychosis. While previously mysterious, doctors are improving diagnosis with the discovery of a growing list of specific antibodies linked to the disease. This breakthrough offers hope for more targeted treatments beyond current anti-inflammatory therapies.
Individuals like Christy Morrill and Kiara Alexander have shared harrowing experiences of their immune systems attacking their brains. Morrill describes his ordeal as a "year of unraveling," losing decades of autobiographical memories. Alexander faced seizures and psychological distress triggered by an ovarian cyst. These personal accounts highlight the profound impact of the disease on personhood and daily functioning.
While some patients achieve full recovery with early intervention, others, like Morrill, cope with lasting memory deficits. Nevertheless, advancements in understanding and treatment, including ongoing clinical trials, provide significant hope. Increased awareness and patient support are crucial for navigating this rare but devastating condition.
