North Georgia Pans Network:  Our Mission

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NGPN (North Georgia Pans Network), is a not for profit organization designed to accomplish the following:

• Educate providers in our area about PANS and empower them to properly diagnose and treat the disease.

• Form a network of north Georgia providers dedicated to safe, effective and appropriate treatment.

• Connect patients with local providers to provide effective diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Form a tribe of North Georgia PANS parents and children to support one another through events and support groups.

• Organize fund raising events to raise awareness and donations to help provide treatment to families and children that aren't financially able to access care.

 

What is PANS? 

 

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is a condition that involves sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or severe eating restrictions, along with at least two other cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include anxiety, emotional lability, irritability, aggression, and sensory or motor abnormalities. PANS is believed to be triggered by infections, metabolic disturbances, and other inflammatory reactions in the brain. It primarily affects children, and accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential to address the condition effectively.

 

 

Who can get PANS? 

 

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) primarily affects children, typically appearing in prepubertal youth. Both boys and girls can be affected, and the condition is thought to occur in children who are genetically predisposed and experience environmental triggers such as infections or other inflammatory reactions.  

 

How do I know if my child has PANS?

 

Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is characterized by a sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or severe eating restrictions, along with other cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms. Common symptoms include anxiety, emotional lability, irritability, aggression, sensory or motor abnormalities, sleep disturbances, and urinary frequency. Children with PANS may also exhibit developmental regression, behavioral and academic decline, and other neuropsychiatric manifestations.

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IS it PANS or PANDAS?  When it's clear that a child's symptoms are linked to a strep infection (like strep throat), it's called PANDAS. It stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcus. PANS is when the severe onset of symptoms is linked to another infection.  However, there is no measurable difference between the two conditions with regards to symptoms and treatment.  Because of this, many providers consider the inclusion of Streptococcus in the diagnosis as confusing and irrelevant.  The belief held by many is that PANS is auto immune and leads to Streptococcus infections--because of this some believe that all cases should be labeled PANS.

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What types of treatments are out there for my child?

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The treatment for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) typically involves a multidisciplinary approach and may include a combination of interventions. This can include antibiotic and antiviral treatments if an underlying infection is suspected, immunomodulatory therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychiatric medications to address specific symptoms such as anxiety, OCD, or mood disturbances. In some cases, dietary changes and nutritional supplements may be recommended. It's crucial for families to work closely with healthcare providers who have experience in treating PANS to develop an individualized treatment plan for the affected child.

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How do I find a provider for PANS? 

 

Treatment for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. This team may include pediatricians, child psychiatrists, pediatric neurologists, infectious disease specialists, immunologists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. Due to the complex nature of PANS, it's important for families to work with clinicians and specialists who have experience in diagnosing and treating the condition to ensure the best possible care for the affected child.  Click here to find a provider:  

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How do I find other Families for support? 

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One of our main goals is to start local support groups locally in the North Georgia area.  Our aim to to form a tribe of families and especially children.  We are in the beginning stages.  Please reach out to us at northgapans@gmail.com and we will put you on our list.  As soon as we have more than one child/family we will organize a social event.  Click here to find a Group or Event in your area:

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