A Parents' Guide to PANDAS, PANS, and Related Neuroimmune Disorders

Patricia Rice Doran is Assistant Professor of Special Education at Towson University, Maryland. Christine L. Amabile is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, currently working full time in the school system and part time as a private practice outpatient therapist. Wendy Nawara is a social worker and founder of PANDAS/PANS Advocacy and Support, a family support non-profit. She lives in Illinois. Diana Pohlman is founder and Chairman of the Board of PANDAS Network, the primary research non-profit in the USA. She lives in California. Tiffany Tumminaro has been practicing as a social worker since 2004, and is an active member of the PANDAS/PANS Advisory Board through the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Introduction. Part One: The Physical Realities of PANDAS, PANS and Related Conditions. 1. Your child has PANDAS or PANS - Now what? 2. What's happening in your child's brain: Medical Context of PANDAS/PANS. 3. Complex cases and comorbid conditions. 4. Common treatments and therapies for PANDAS/PANS. 5. Challenges in finding treatment for PANDAS/PANS. 6. Ensuring physical wellbeing: Nutrition and lifestyle support for PANDAS/PANS. 7. Managing relapse. Part Two: Living Well with PANDAS and PANS Symptoms. 8. Supporting mental well-being: Emotional and behavioral impact of PANDAS/PANS. 9. Managing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) on a daily basis. 10. Managing separation and generalized anxiety. 11. Routines, supports and social skills. 12. Family self-care: Post-traumatic stress and support systems. Part Three: Planning, Advocacy and Communication. 13. Communicating and advocating effectively on behalf of your child. 14. Developing a strong educational plan for your child. 15. School supports, accommodations and adaptations. 16. Transitions, adolescence and adulthood with PANDAS/PANS. 17. Conclusion.