Impact on the Brain

In PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections), the immune system's misdirected response has a profound impact on the brain, leading to a cascade of neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

The immune system's primary function is to defend the body against harmful invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. However, in the case of PANS/PANDAS, an infection-triggered autoimmune response occurs. This means that the immune system, in its effort to fight off the infection, mistakenly identifies healthy brain cells as foreign threats, particularly those located in an area of the brain called the basal ganglia.

As a result, the immune system produces antibodies designed to target and neutralize these perceived threats. These antibodies, however, end up attacking the healthy neurons and cells in the basal ganglia. This attack leads to inflammation and dysfunction in this critical brain region, which plays a vital role in regulating movement, behavior, and emotions.

The consequences of this autoimmune attack are diverse and can manifest as a wide range of neuropsychiatric symptoms. These may include sudden and severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tics, anxiety, mood swings, aggression, and cognitive difficulties. The basal ganglia's compromised function disrupts the brain's ability to regulate thoughts, emotions, and movements properly, resulting in the onset of these distressing symptoms.

The impact of the immune system's misdirected response on the brain underscores the complex and multifaceted nature of PANS/PANDAS. Understanding this process is crucial for healthcare professionals and individuals affected by these disorders, as it guides diagnosis and treatment approaches aimed at addressing the autoimmune response, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing within the central nervous system.