If you’re a parent or caregiver, nothing can be more overwhelming than watching your child suddenly change—seemingly overnight. One day they’re their usual self, and the next, they’re anxious, moody, or engaging in repetitive behaviors that feel out of the blue. If this sounds familiar, you may have heard the term PANS, which stands for Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what PANS is, what it can look like in children, and what families can do to navigate this challenging but treatable condition.
What Is PANS?
PANS is a condition that appears in children and is marked by the sudden onset of serious neuropsychiatric symptoms, most commonly obsessive-compulsive behaviors (OCD), anxiety, and other emotional or behavioral changes. What sets PANS apart from other childhood disorders is just how quickly these symptoms come on—often within a day or two.
Researchers believe PANS may be linked to the immune system, particularly how it responds to infections or environmental triggers. In some cases, the body’s defense system mistakenly targets healthy areas of the brain, causing inflammation that affects thinking, mood, and behavior.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of PANS can vary from child to child, but common signs include:
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors (e.g., repetitive checking, handwashing, or intrusive thoughts)
Severe anxiety or mood swings
Sudden academic difficulties or trouble concentrating
Sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
Physical complaints like frequent urination, joint pain, or fatigue
Developmental regression (e.g., talking like a younger child, needing help with tasks they used to do independently)
Psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or disorganized thinking (in more severe cases)
Sleep disturbances or night-time fears
These changes can be distressing for both the child and their family. But the good news is that with the right help, symptoms can be managed and children often improve over time.
What Causes PANS?
PANS is believed to be triggered by a combination of factors:
Infections – Especially Group A Streptococcus (the bacteria that causes strep throat), as well as other bacterial or viral illnesses
Environmental stressors – Emotional trauma or exposure to toxins may also play a role
Immune system dysfunction – An autoimmune reaction that causes inflammation in the brain
The complexity of PANS suggests it’s not caused by just one thing, but rather a combination of triggers that affect a child’s nervous system.
How Is PANS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing PANS can be challenging because it shares symptoms with other conditions like OCD, anxiety disorders, ADHD, or even autoimmune encephalitis.
Doctors typically rely on:
Thorough medical history and symptom review
Neurological and psychological evaluations
Lab tests to rule out infections or inflammation
Imaging (like MRI) or EEG in some cases, to look for signs of brain inflammation
Because there’s no single test for PANS, it’s essential to work with a provider who is experienced in pediatric neuropsychiatric conditions.
How Is PANS Treated?
Treating PANS involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying triggers. Here’s what a care plan might include:
Medical Treatment
Antibiotics or antivirals to treat any active infections
Anti-inflammatory medications or, in some cases, immune-modulating therapies like steroids or IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin)
Psychological Support
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help manage OCD and anxiety
Medications (e.g., SSRIs) may be used carefully under guidance, especially if symptoms are severe
Family Education and Support
Teaching families what to expect and how to respond to flares
Behavioral strategies to support the child at home and at school
Ongoing Monitoring
Because symptoms can come and go, regular follow-ups help adjust treatment and provide reassurance to families during tough times
Why It Matters to Get the Right Diagnosis
PANS can look a lot like other disorders, but the sudden onset and immune connection set it apart. Understanding the difference is important because treatment for PANS often goes beyond standard psychiatric care.
It also helps families feel seen and supported—because when you have an explanation for what’s going on, it’s easier to move forward with confidence and hope.
Final Thoughts
PANS is real, and it is treatable. With early recognition, comprehensive care, and strong family support, many children recover or see significant improvement.
While there is still much to learn, ongoing research continues to improve how we understand, diagnose, and manage this condition. If your child is showing sudden, intense behavioral changes—trust your instincts and seek out knowledgeable care.
You are not alone on this journey, and with the right team and information, healing is possible.
For more resources or to speak with a provider experienced in PANS/PANDAS, reach out to your pediatrician or a local neuroimmune specialist.
Source: Masterson, E. E., Miles, K., Schlenk, N., Manko, C., Ma, M., Farhadian, B., Chang, K., Silverman, M., Thienemann, M., & Frankovich, J. (2025). Defining clinical course of patients evaluated for pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS): phenotypic classification based on 10 years of clinical data. Developmental Neuroscience, 1–33. https://doi.org/10.1159/000545598