Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS)
Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is a medical syndrome that was initially identified as a subset of PANDAS a decade ago. However, recent classification has distinguished PANS from PANDAS, highlighting that PANS is not solely caused by streptococcus. PANS shares similar neurologic symptoms with PANDAS, but studies have indicated links between PANS and various infections and metabolic disturbances. These include mycoplasma, mononucleosis, Lyme disease, and the H1N1 flu virus. In cases of PANS, bloodwork typically reveals signs of inflammation.
Rewriting Sydenham’s Chorea
Sydenham’s Chorea is a neurological disorder that predominantly affects children and is caused by an infection of group A beta-hemolytic strep. This condition is characterized by uncontrolled and unpredictable movements of the facial muscles, trunk, and legs. It commonly affects girls aged between five and 15 years old. Interestingly, in some instances, the symptoms of Sydenham’s Chorea may develop up to six months after the initial fever or infection has subsided. Similar to PANDAS, the symptoms of Sydenham’s Chorea progress rapidly.