{"id":2246,"date":"2016-04-01T14:30:22","date_gmt":"2016-04-01T18:30:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/?page_id=2246"},"modified":"2025-08-07T17:47:46","modified_gmt":"2025-08-07T21:47:46","slug":"pediatric-autoimmune-neuropsychiatric-disorders-associated-with-streptococcal-infections-pandas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/epidemiology\/epidemiology-fact-sheets\/pediatric-autoimmune-neuropsychiatric-disorders-associated-with-streptococcal-infections-pandas\/","title":{"rendered":"Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n\t

What is Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS)?<\/h2>\n

Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) is a term for a disorder in children who have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), tic disorders, or both and who suddenly develop symptoms or have symptoms worsen after being infected with \u201cstrep\u201d bacteria (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus or Group A Strep). Although the mechanism behind this disorder is unclear, researchers are investigating whether PANDAS is an autoimmune disorder triggered by Group A Strep infection (such as strep throat).<\/p>\n

Who gets PANDAS?<\/h2>\n

PANDAS is most common in children younger than 13 years who have been infected with Group A Strep.<\/p>\n

How is PANDAS spread?<\/h2>\n

PANDAS is thought to be the result of an individual\u2019s immune system response to Group A Strep infection. PANDAS is not spread from one person to another.<\/p>\n

What are the symptoms of PANDAS?<\/h2>\n

The symptoms of PANDAS include obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors and motor or vocal tics. These symptoms can be accompanied by a variety of other neuropsychiatric symptoms such as separation anxiety, moodiness\/irritability, and anxiety attacks.<\/p>\n

How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?<\/h2>\n

Children who develop PANDAS usually have a sudden onset of symptoms. The symptoms usually become more intense within 24\u201348 hours after the onset of their Group A Strep infection.<\/p>\n

How is PANDAS diagnosed?<\/h2>\n

PANDAS is diagnosed by a healthcare provider after evaluating the patient. Although laboratory testing cannot identify PANDAS, it might identify a Group A Strep infection, which precedes PANDAS.<\/p>\n

What is the treatment for PANDAS?<\/h2>\n

If a Group A Strep infection is identified, antibiotics might be prescribed to kill the bacteria. Other treatment might be provided based on the patient\u2019s clinical condition, including cognitive behavioral therapy or anti-obsessional medications.
\n<\/p>\n

How can PANDAS be prevented?<\/h2>\n

The likelihood of PANDAS is reduced by limiting the spread of Group A Strep. The spread of Group A Strep can be reduced by following these tips:<\/p>\n