Most children with paediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) or paediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal disease (PANDAS) are misdiagnosed as having a psychiatric illness, behaviour problems or parenting/family dynamic concerns. Many go through a number of psychiatric medications and therapies with minimal improvement and many progressively get worse. The diagnosis of PANS or PANDAS should be considered whenever symptoms of OCD, tics and eating restrictions start suddenly and are accompanied by other emotional and behavioural changes, frequent urination, motor abnormalities and/or handwriting changes.
For more information on PANS and PANDAS, have a read of my recently published article below.