Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated With Streptococcal Infections

The acronym PANDAS stands for a clinically defined syndrome: pediatric autoimmune disorder associated with streptococcal infection. PANDAS fits under the broader category of PANS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric disorder). These syndromes present with multiple severe emotional, behavioral, and physical signs and symptoms, which may resolve with timely and appropriate treatment. Because some controversy arose with the definitions of PANS and PANDAS, and to bring some perspective to the discussion, this entry begins with a review of the long-established and well-accepted post–streptococcal infection autoimmune syndrome, Sydenham chorea. Then it describes the relatively short history of PANDAS, and its possible etiologies and clinical presentation. It also discusses the controversy about PANDAS, areas of ongoing research, and current knowledge about treatment.