PANDAS

PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) is a controversial condition that affects some children following a streptococcal infection such as strep throat or scarlet fever.

PANDAS is characterized by a sudden onset or worsening of:

– Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms

– Tic disorders (motor or vocal tics)

– Other neuropsychiatric symptoms

These symptoms typically appear abruptly, often described as happening “overnight and out of the blue”. Additional symptoms may include:

– Anxiety

– Mood changes or irritability

– Separation anxiety

– Behavioral regression

– Decline in school performance

– Sleep disturbances

The exact cause of PANDAS is not fully understood, but it’s thought to be an autoimmune response triggered by a strep infection. The proposed mechanism involves:

1. Strep bacteria using “molecular mimicry” to evade the immune system

2. The immune system producing antibodies to fight the strep infection

3. These antibodies mistakenly attacking brain tissues, particularly in the basal ganglia

Diagnosis is based on:

– Clinical evaluation of symptoms

– Evidence of a recent strep infection

– Ruling out other possible causes

Treatment approaches for PANDAS may include:

– Antibiotics for active strep infections

– Cognitive behavioral therapy for OCD and behavioral symptoms

– Habit reversal training for tics

– In some cases, immunomodulatory treatments

Dr. Siri and her team of immunologists at MASA are dedicated to up-to-date research and raising awareness and new knowledge about the condition. Dr. Siri has also served as a Member and Chair for State of Illinois PANDAS/PANS Advisory Council under IDPH. Because of autoimmune diseases like PANDAS, She strongly believes that every person deserves a full medical work up prior to ascribing their illness as a psychiatric condition.

Please feel free to contact us if you have questions about PANDAS as a patient or medical professionals, or if someone you know might have symptoms associated with PANDAS. Call us at Bloomington – Normal Office: 309.452.0995 Springfield Office: 217.717.4404, or visit us on Facebook.

We also have an ongoing list of resources below. Please check back for updates.

Additional resources: