PANDAS/PANS

The article "What is PANDAS/PANS?" by Beth Alison Maloney discusses Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). The author shares her personal experience of her son’s sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Tourette’s, which were later linked to a strep infection. PANDAS occurs when strep antibodies mistakenly attack the brain, causing neuropsychiatric symptoms such as tics, OCD, and mood changes. The article outlines the confusion and challenges in diagnosing and treating PANDAS/PANS due to its atypical presentation and the medical community's lack of awareness. It emphasizes the importance of parental instincts in identifying these disorders and advocates for early detection and appropriate treatment to prevent long-term mental health issues.

  • Understand the definition and causes of PANDAS and PANS.

  • Identify the key behavioral symptoms associated with PANDAS.

  • Recognize the challenges in diagnosing PANDAS/PANS.

  • Discuss the role of strep antibodies in causing neuropsychiatric symptoms.

  • Explore the importance of early detection and treatment in managing PANDAS/PANS.

  • Appreciate the impact of parental advocacy in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders linked to infections.

Content

    1. What is PANDAS/PANS? by Beth Alison Maloney

    2. PANDAS Quiz

    1. The Neuropsychotherapist Volume 5 Issue 11

Become a Member