What are PANS and PANDAS?

PANS stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. This is a very abrupt onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms following an infection. The onset of PANS follows bacterial infections including Lyme and Mycoplasma pneumonia and can be triggered by some viral infections as well.

PANDAS is short for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. PANDAS symptoms typically appear following bacterial infections with some types of Strep bacteria.

What does this look like?

Parents often describe a well adjusted happy child who, seemingly out of nowhere, becomes anxious, angry and confused with some combination of the symptoms listed below.

Symptoms of PANS/PANDAS include:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Children may suddenly start rituals of counting, be overly concerned with germs, cleanliness or neatness. Many children become obsessed with food texture and tastes which may develop into eating disorders.
• Inability to focus, concentrate and process information which can lead to a deterioration in school performance.
• Tics such as the constant need to clear their throat or facial twitches
• Mood changes including irritability, anxiety, depression and rage.
• Separation anxiety that is inappropriate for their age
• Physical symptoms such as joint pain
• Sensitivity to noise and light
• Bedwetting and frequent urination
• Sleep disturbances

Resources

• PANS/ PANDAS by Molecular Labs Video
• Child Mind Institute
• PANDAS Network – Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders
• National Institute of Mental Health: Fact Sheet about Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections
• Moleculera Labs