PANDAS (Pediatric acute neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections) or PANS (Pediatrican acute neuropsychiatric syndrome) are conditions in children marked by a sudden onset of obsessive compulsive disorder symptoms, tics, or significant and dramatic changes to eating behavior. Thought to be caused by neuroinflammation, accompanying symptoms include irritability, difficulty managing emotions, bed-wetting or other developmental regression, anxiety, and depression. In PANDAS, the child will have evidence of a current/recent streptococcal infection, while children with PANS tend to have signs of tick-related infections (such as Lyme disease). Treatment can include antibiotics, SSRIs or other medications shown to help with obsessive-compulsive symptoms or tics, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Working with a physician to treat PANS/PANDAS in addition to a CBT provider can best support children managing this condition.
