This CME activity provides a practical approach to the recognition and management of Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, also referred to as PANS. PANS is relatively newly understood, under-identified, and therefore under-treated in clinical practice. In PANS, “medical” infectious and inflammatory diseases present with severe, often debilitating “mental” psychiatric and neurological symptoms. When the connections between infection, inflammation and PANS symptoms are not suspected and identified, the opportunity for clinical treatment may be missed or delayed.  During this course, typical presentations will be illustrated with case scenarios. Different aspects of evaluation will be demonstrated, including physical examination for neurological soft signs. Treatment algorithms will also be demonstrated, and the role of family education, multidisciplinary coordination and need for school accommodations will be discussed.

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

  • Recognize the signs and symptoms of PANS in patients.
  • Administer the appropriate first line treatments to PANS patients.
  • Effectively refer PANS patients to specialist care and coordinate care with these healthcare providers.
  • Educate and counsel PANS patients and their families on care at home and at school.