HHSC: Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council

The Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) Advisory Council is established in accordance with Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 119A. Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome is a medical condition where a child suddenly develops obsessive-compulsive symptoms or severe eating restrictions along with at least two other cognitive, behavioral or neurological symptoms. Symptoms typically appear following an infection or other inflammatory reaction. An estimated 1–2% of children are affected by PANS, according to the PANS Research Consortium. Estimates suggest that about 11,000 children younger than 18 years old develop this illness each year in Texas. A PANS diagnosis is based on an analysis of the child’s medical history, current symptoms and a physical examination. PANS interferes with children’s ability to learn in school and, if left untreated, can negatively affect their quality of life. The purpose of the Council is to advise Health and Human