PANDAS stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal infection and PANS stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. PANDAS and PANS usually occur in children; however, adults can also suffer from these syndromes. In individuals who suffer from PANDAS or PANS a streptococcal or other infection (respectively) will cross the blood brain barrier and inflame certain parts of the brain. This inflammation will often look like a rapid onset of OCD or other mental health disorder.

These conditions cause the brain to function in some similar ways to how the brain would respond to experiencing some mental health conditions, including OCD. The process by which this occurs is called molecular mimicry. This is similar to how an autoimmune disease (e.g., Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus) functions in the body in that the immune system attacks brain tissues rather than protecting it. The area of the brain that is most impacted by a PANS or PANDAS condition is call the Basal Ganglia (primarily responsible for movement and behavior) (Moleculaera labs, 2018).

Portland Anxiety Clinic works with children, adolescents, and adults as well as their families who suffer from PANS/PANDAS. The behavioral health treatment does not differ from what is done with individuals who suffer from OCD; however, your physician may prescribe different medications than what may normally be prescribed for OCD or other related conditions. PANDAS and PANS can both be treated at the outpatient, IOP, and PHP levels of care at Portland Anxiety Clinic.

We are happy to answer any additional questions you may have about PANS/PANDAS or any other condition that we treat at Portland Anxiety Clinic. Please do not hesitate to call us. Our support staff or one of our specialists will answer any questions you have. We know your child’s health is a high priority. At Portland Anxiety Clinic we are dedicated to helping children and families get the best treatment available.