PANS
Also written as: PANS — Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome
Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, characterized by sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms and other neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Full Definition
Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) describes children who have an abrupt, acute, dramatic onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder or severely restricted food intake, along with at least two other neuropsychiatric symptoms. These may include anxiety, emotional lability, depression, irritability, behavioral regression, deterioration in school performance, sensory or motor abnormalities, or somatic signs and symptoms. PANS is thought to result from various infectious triggers, autoimmune responses, or other inflammatory reactions. The condition requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent long-term complications.
Usage
Usage note: Related to but distinct from PANDAS, which specifically involves streptococcal infections.
In Context
- "The sudden onset of severe OCD symptoms following a viral illness raises suspicion for PANS." — Clinical consultation note
- "PANS treatment may require both psychiatric intervention and medical evaluation for underlying inflammatory processes." — Treatment planning meeting