PANDAS: Rare Condition Linked to Strep Infections Identified by NIMH
PANDAS, a rare but serious condition, has been identified by Dr. Susan Swedo at the National Institute of Mental Health. It's characterised by the abrupt onset of severe psychiatric symptoms in children following a strep infection.
PANDAS, short for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain after a strep infection. This misdirected attack, known as molecular mimicry, causes neuroinflammation and disrupts normal brain functioning. Symptoms can include severe anxiety, motor or vocal tics, restrictive eating habits, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
An accurate diagnosis is vital when psychiatric symptoms might be linked to an infection. Doctors look for a timeline connecting the strep infection to abrupt mental changes and evaluate both immune system and behavioral changes. Treatment involves eliminating the strep infection with antibiotics and reducing brain inflammation with medication. In severe cases, stronger immune therapies may be recommended.
If a child experiences sudden changes in mood or behavior following strep throat, consulting a doctor is crucial. A PANDAS diagnosis can provide a clear medical reason for these changes and guide appropriate treatment.
