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Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus (PANDAS) and pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS)

What is PANDAS / PANS?

Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus (PANDAS) and pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) are conditions characterized by the sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms during childhood. These syndromes result from an immune system overreaction to infections or other triggers, leading to inflammation that affects the brain and causes rapid behavioral and emotional changes.

The symptoms of PANDAS / PANS emerge abruptly, typically within 24 to 48 hours, and can include but are not necessarily limited to:

  • Obsessions and compulsions (OCD-like behaviors)
  • Severe anxiety or emotional lability
  • Food restriction or disordered eating
  • Motor or vocal tics
  • Behavioral regression
  • Irritability or aggression
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Impulsivity
  • Changes in handwriting

These symptoms often follow an episodic course, fluctuating in severity. With the right diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, children with PANDAS / PANS can achieve significant improvement.

Treatment for PANDAS / PANS

Effective treatment for PANDAS / PANS involves a collaborative approach between medical and mental health professionals.

  1. Medical Interventions:
    • Antibiotic Therapy: The underlying infection, often caused by streptococcus bacteria, is typically treated with antibiotics. Some physicians may recommend prophylactic antibiotics to reduce the risk of recurrence.
    • Additional Medical Treatments: Depending on the case, other medications or interventions, such as anti-inflammatory therapies or immune-modulating treatments, may be prescribed.
  2. Mental Health Care:
    At The Center for Emotional Health, our clinicians specialize in evidence-based treatments for the neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with PANDAS / PANS, including:

    • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): This therapy targets obsessive-compulsive behaviors by helping children gradually face their fears while resisting compulsive behaviors.
    • Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT): This evidence-based approach helps manage tics through awareness training, relaxation techniques, and behavioral strategies.
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Used to address anxiety, mood changes, and other emotional challenges related to the condition.
    • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): This treatment is used to address aggressive and oppositional behaviors in young children.
    • Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE): A structured parent-based treatment that helps parents reduce anxiety-reinforcing behaviors, provide empathetic yet empowering support, and develop practical tools to foster their child’s independence and resilience.

Psychoeducation and Support:

We provide families with the education and tools they need to understand PANDAS / PANS and support their child’s recovery. Our collaborative approach ensures that families feel empowered to navigate this journey alongside a multidisciplinary team of experts.

Why Early Intervention is Key:

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of PANDAS / PANS can significantly improve outcomes, minimizing the impact of the condition on a child’s daily life and development. If your child is experiencing the sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms, seeking care early is essential to their recovery. At CEH, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for children and families affected by PANDAS / PANS.

Request Your Appointment

Take the first step toward better mental health. Whether in person or through telehealth, The Center for Emotional Health is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today with any questions and to schedule your appointment.