PANDAS
PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) causes abrupt behavioral and neurological changes in children after streptococcal infections.
What is PANDAS?
PANDAS is a condition in which children experience a sudden, dramatic onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tic disorders, severe anxiety, emotional lability, irritability, and sometimes regression in handwriting, math skills, or motor function following a Group A streptococcal (strep) infection. The theory is that the immune system's antibodies, produced to fight the strep infection, mistakenly attack a part of the brain called the basal ganglia, causing neuropsychiatric symptoms. PANDAS is diagnosed based on specific clinical criteria including pre-pubertal onset, association with Group A strep, acute severity and episodic course, and neurological abnormalities during flares. Treatment may include antibiotics to clear the underlying infection, immunomodulatory therapies (IVIG, plasmapheresis) for severe cases, and cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD and anxiety symptoms. Early recognition and treatment are critical for preventing long-term neuropsychiatric effects.
Common Signs & Symptoms
Ways to Cope & Manage
Antibiotic Treatment
Prompt treatment of strep infections with antibiotics to reduce the autoimmune trigger and prevent symptom flares.
Immunomodulatory Therapy
IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) or plasmapheresis for severe cases to reduce the autoimmune attack on the brain.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
CBT, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), to help children manage OCD symptoms and anxiety.
Anti-Inflammatory Support
NSAIDs or corticosteroids may be used during flares to reduce brain inflammation and symptom severity.
School Accommodations
IEP or 504 plan modifications during flares including reduced workload, extra time, and behavioral support.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — dial or text 988
Top Professionals
Serena Allen, C-pnp
Nurse Practitioner, Pediatrics
Healthcare ProfessionalNicole Baron, P.n.p.
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Healthcare ProfessionalCharles Abrams, M.D.
Psychiatry & Neurology, Neurology
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