Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Strep Infections (PANS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) are conditions in which a child or adolescent presents with an abrupt onset of new psychiatric or behavioral symptoms not previously seen. Estimates suggest these occur in 1 in 200 children.
Often this is in the form of new fears, anxieties, obsessive-compulsive disorder (recurrent, intrusive thoughts with repetitive behaviors), restricted eating, tics or repetitive movements, and emotional mood swings. There can be regressions in a child’s behaviors, school work or handwriting ability, and/or sensory sensitivities. Physical manifestations can include frequent urination or bedwetting, joint pain, and sleep difficulties. Inflammation in the nervous system, in particular the basal ganglia of the brain, underlies these symptoms, and can be treated.
While Strep infections are one of the more common triggers, these symptoms can be brought on by other infectious agents such as Lyme disease, influenza and other common viruses, or non-infectious triggers such as stress, hormonal changes, or anesthesia. A family history of autoimmune conditions is often, but not always present.
Comprehensive treatment of these conditions must involve addressing the triggering event(s), supporting healthy gut-immune-nervous system function, preventing the autoimmune response from continuing, and providing resources to support the child and their family through this difficult illness.
My approach to these conditions includes a thorough history and lab work in order to create an individualized plan of treatments that may include pharmaceutical medicines, herbal medicines, nutrients, and strategies and resources for family support.