Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, PANS, Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, Childhood Acute Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
How Is PANDAS Treated?
To treat PANDAS, the NIMH emphasizes, the underlying strep infection must be treated. In many cases, this can be accomplished with a single course of antibiotics. More serious strep infections may require a longer course of treatment or multiple courses of antibiotics. Once the strep has been treated, PANDAS symptoms will typically start to fade, the NIMH reports, though they may take a few months to disappear altogether.
To prevent strep reinfection, parents should discard toothbrushes and sterilize other objects that go into a child’s mouth. Testing siblings for strep may also be a good idea, even if they’re not showing symptoms; they may be carrying the bacteria and could potentially reinfect the affected child.
Though the symptoms of PANDAS should subside once the infection has been treated, progress may be slow, and a short course of therapy can help a child manage the conditions in the meantime. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP) can help a child take control of obsessions or compulsions or learn coping skills to handle strong emotions while the treatment takes its course.
Some children with PANDAS may respond positively to SSRIs . However, the NIMH cautions that children with PANDAS may be more likely than other children to experience significant side effects from these drugs, so it’s best to start with a low dose and stop use (under a doctor’s supervision) if symptoms start to worsen or side effects become unmanageable.
Explore More About PANDAS
For a comprehensive understanding of pandas, read our complete guide: