Safety and efficacy of combined B-cell depleting therapy and daratumumab in patients with autoimmune encephalitis (RADIA): study protocol for a multicenter, randomized trial - Report - MDSpire

Safety and efficacy of combined B-cell depleting therapy and daratumumab in patients with autoimmune encephalitis (RADIA): study protocol for a multicenter, randomized trial

  • By

  • Wei Xie

  • Lin-Jie Zhang

  • Chunxian Yue

  • Baojie Wang

  • Shougang Guo

  • Xuegan Lian

  • Chao Zhang

  • May 29, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Evaluation of Safety and Effectiveness of B-cell Depleting Agents

Overview

The RADIA trial aims to assess the safety and efficacy of B-cell depleting agents combined with daratumumab in patients with severe autoimmune encephalitis, particularly NMDA receptor encephalitis. This multicenter study will provide critical data to inform treatment strategies for this challenging condition.

Background

Autoimmune encephalitis, particularly anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, presents significant treatment challenges, with a substantial proportion of patients requiring long-term care despite standard therapies. Current management relies heavily on retrospective data, highlighting the urgent need for high-quality evidence to guide clinical practice. The RADIA trial seeks to fill this gap by evaluating a novel treatment approach involving B-cell depleting agents and daratumumab.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the provided source material.

Key Findings

  • The RADIA trial is a multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial involving 200 patients across 58 hospitals in China.
  • Participants will be randomized into three groups: B-cell depleting agent with daratumumab, B-cell depleting agent alone, and standard therapy (IVIG or plasmapheresis).
  • The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients achieving an mRS score ≤ 2 at 16 weeks post-treatment.
  • Secondary outcomes include neurocognitive function, ICU stay duration, and adverse event monitoring.
  • This study aims to provide robust evidence for the efficacy of the combined regimen in treating severe autoimmune encephalitis.

Clinical Implications

The findings from the RADIA trial could significantly influence treatment protocols for severe autoimmune encephalitis, particularly NMDARE. If successful, the combined use of B-cell depleting agents and daratumumab may offer a new therapeutic option for patients who do not respond adequately to first-line treatments.

Conclusion

The RADIA trial represents a critical step towards establishing evidence-based treatment options for severe autoimmune encephalitis. The outcomes may reshape clinical approaches and improve patient care in this complex disease area.

Related Resources & Content

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  10. Frontiers | Safety and efficacy of combined B-cell depleting therapy and daratumumab in patients with autoimmune encephalitis (RADIA): Study Protocol for a Multicenter, Randomized Trial

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