Is PANS life-threatening?

PANS (including PANDAS) is not in and of itself, life-threatening. But some of its comorbidities can cause significant morbidity if not managed.

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Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) is characterized by the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms and/or severe eating restrictions, along with at least two other cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms. The condition can present with a range of symptoms, and the severity can vary widely between individuals.

The most serious symptoms of PANS can include:

1. Severe Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This may manifest as intense obsessions, fears, or compulsions that can be extremely disruptive to a child's life.

2. Extreme Food Restriction: This can lead to significant weight loss, malnutrition, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications.

3. Cognitive Changes: Including a noticeable drop in school performance, particularly in math and handwriting abilities, problems with memory, and difficulties with concentration.

4. Emotional and Behavioral Changes: These may include severe mood swings, anxiety, irritability, aggression, personality changes, and even episodes of psychosis.

5. Sensory and Motor Abnormalities: Sensory hypersensitivity, motor abnormalities (like unusual body movements), and tics.

6. Sleep Disturbances: This may include insomnia, nightmares, and other sleep problems.

7. Urinary Issues: Some children may experience increased frequency or urgency of urination, and sometimes even loss of control over urination.

It's important to note that PANS is a clinical diagnosis, and the presence of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean a child has PANS. Other medical, psychiatric, and neurological disorders can cause similar symptoms, and these should be ruled out before a diagnosis of PANS is made.