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Contact UsPANS/PANDAS
Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychotic Disorders Associated with Strephococal Infections (PANDAS)
What is PANS?
PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome):
A diagnosis of PANS is primarily clinical and based on a set of criteria. The diagnostic criteria for PANS are known as the “PANS Criteria,” and they include:
a. Abrupt, dramatic onset of OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) or severely restricted food intake.
b. Concurrent presence of at least two of the following:
- Anxiety, emotional lability, and/or depression.
- Irritability, aggression, and/or severe oppositional behaviors.
- Behavioral (developmental) regression.
- Sudden deterioration in school performance.
- Sensory or motor abnormalities.
What is PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections)?
PANDAS is considered a subset of PANS and is specifically associated with streptococcal infections (typically strep throat). The diagnosis of PANDAS includes the following criteria:
a. Presence of OCD and/or a tic disorder.
b. Abrupt onset and episodic course of symptoms.
c. Prepubertal onset.
d. Temporal association with Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infection confirmed by laboratory testing.
The diagnosis of PANDAS also involves ruling out other medical and psychiatric conditions.
Treating PANS and PANDAS is very complex and requires a holistic approach. Because of our experience in treating eating disorders, OCD, and anxiety, the mental health providers at Foundations Counseling Center have had successful results in treating this condition.
To schedule an appointment for an initial appointment, please call (702) 240-8639. Our administrative team is ready to answer your phone call Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm. If we are busy assisting other clients or away from our desk, we ask that you leave a message, and we will return your phone call within two business days. You may also reach us via email.
Your first appointment will be with a mental health provider. If you are a child or adolescent, your parent or guardian will be with you during this appointment. During this initial visit, your provider will explain the expectations of treatment and ask questions to get to know you. Your provider will also initiate an extensive Biopsychosocial Diagnostic Interview asking questions about your presenting problems, current living situation, family history, relationship history, medical history, academic/employment history, nutrition, lifestyle, and other pertinent information. This allows your provider to properly diagnose the issues, assess your current needs, and work with you to build an individualized treatment plan for future sessions.
Foundations Counseling Center is in-network with most insurances. Most policies include mental health benefits and pay for services, as long as treatment meets medical necessity. Others cover only a limited amount of sessions. Some insurance policies pay for 100% of the services. Others apply co-pays, co-insurances, and deductibles for services, leaving you financially responsible to pay a portion. Most insurance companies cover all mental health conditions. Others exclude certain diagnoses and certain outpatient services. It is best if you contact your insurance company to learn and understand the benefit details of your insurance coverage.