Let’s Find A PANDAS Cure!

    Our PANDAS Network Ambassador, Katelyn Pohlman, Tells the story of how the PANDAS Network was formed in 2009 and why we must fund PANDAS research now more than ever.

    We’re PANDAS Network

    We understand the shock and confusion you feel when your child is suffering and you don’t have answers. PANDAS Network is the leading national nonprofit organization for PANDAS/PANS/AE, and we’re dedicated to providing resources and support to families like yours who are living with this disorder.

    Did your child recently start showing PANS/PANDAS symptoms and is between the ages of 6yrs and 17yrs or age? Consider reaching out to learn more about the ProPANS IVIG Clinical Trial.

    Ambassador Program

    The five finalists have been selected for the
    PANDAS Network Rays of Light Ambassador
    Program! Click the link below to learn more
    about the finalists and the program.

    Rebecca’s Video 

    Rebecca was an outgoing child whose personality changed dramatically after a strep infection. Receiving a PANDAS diagnosis gave her family hope. Hear her story of diagnosis, treatment and recovery from PANDAS.

    Stay Informed

    Looking to stay current with advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of PANDAS/PANS? Check out our news and articles section to read the latest research and discover new information.

    New IVIG Treatment Study

    Did your child recently start showing PANS/PANDAS symptoms and is between the ages of 6yrs and 17yrs or age? Consider reaching out to learn more about the 2022 ProPANS IVIG Clinical Trial

About PANDAS Network

What is PANDAS/PANS?
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

What is PANDAS/PANS?

Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) occur after an infection, most commonly a strep infection; however, current research indicates that other bacterial, viral or environmental irritants can also cause persistent symptoms. A child’s immune system misdirects its response, and the reaction causes a process of inflammation to occur in the brain. The symptoms can vary from child to child, but the onset is sudden and dramatic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PANDAS/PANS can range from mild to severe. From minor disruptions to complete incapacitation—both mentally and physically—symptoms of this disease affect the daily lives of affected children and those who care about them. While PANDAS/PANS usually starts in childhood (ages 4–10), symptoms can become chronic and continue into adulthood.

Diagnosis

The best way to get a diagnosis is to meet with your pediatrician and be referred to a specialist. Diagnosis is made based on clinical evaluation, which is a collection of signs, symptoms, medical history and laboratory findings. Because PANDAS/PANS is a lesser-known disease, it can be challenging to get a diagnosis. Our resources can help.

Treatment

With early treatment, research indicates that PANDAS/PANS can be cured or largely stopped for many children. However, left untreated, PANDAS/PANS can cause permanent issues, and inflammatory processes may continue to affect the central nervous system for several years. Treatment involves addressing both the physical and psychiatric symptoms of the condition, as well as ensuring any strep or other infection is taken care of with the appropriate medications.

PANDAS at a Glance

Learn more about this commonly misdiagnosed disorder HERE.

1 : 200

Children affected by PANDAS/PANS*

4 – 10

Average age of onset

49%

Of patients who had OCD and tics as primary symptoms

81%

Of patients who reported infections of streptococcal pharyngitis

*These are estimates of lifetime prevalence. Based on U.S. research of OCD incidence and CDC 2013 national surveillance report of emergency hospitalizations of youth to age 21 with mental health issues related to OCD, Tourettes, &  Acute Mood Disorders. (MMWR 2013;62(Suppl; May 15, 2013): 1-35. Percentage of cases based on 2018 PANDAS Network survey 1,400 families and multiple published clinical studies.

Our Mission

PANDAS Network is dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of children with PANDAS. Armed with an impressive network of doctors, researchers and scientists, PANDAS Network builds public awareness, provides much-needed support to families and gathers data and resources to better inform parents and the medical community about PANDAS/PANS.

Learn More >

Resource Guide

We know it can be challenging to locate scientifically sound, helpful and empathetic resources for those raising and treating children with PANDAS/PANS. Discover a wealth of resources about PANDAS/PANS vetted by our directors and scientific advisors.

Patient
Resources

Learn how to recognize symptoms, find providers and promote awareness. Since symptoms can vary from mild to acute, ask your clinician what medical interventions are available, and express urgency or seek emergency care if needed.

Clinician
Resources

Clinicians play an integral part in the diagnosis, treatment and recovery of patients with PANDAS/PANS. Learn more about the latest information on diagnostic guidelines, critical research, effective treatment options and more.

Educator
Resources

If you’re an educator, caregiver, family member or a friend of someone with PANDAS/PANS, you can support research, raise awareness and provide assistance. See how to advocate for children living with this disorder and their families. 

Latest Clinical Treatment Research

Research into understanding and treating PANDAS/PANS is growing every year. Learn more about the latest scientific discoveries and what they mean for patients and caregivers.

PANDAS Stories

You are not alone in this fight. Other families affected by PANDAS/PANS have shared their personal stories to help raise awareness of PANDAS/PANS and encourage others whose lives are affected by these disorders.

Learn More >

Support
Our Mission

Help us continue to support the children and adults living with PANDAS/PANS.

Donate

Support research and critical support for families.

Get Involved

Help us spread awareness about PANDAS.

Contact Us

Reach out to our team to learn more about PANDAS.