An Exploratory Study of Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior and School Problems Associated with Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS)

Abstract

Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) is an increasingly studied disorder that has been linked to negative neuropsychiatric outcomes, with the most frequently cited consequence being rapid onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Little is known, however, about the educational impacts of this disorder on school-aged children. This study aimed to learn (1) what school-related problems do parents report in children with PANS?; (2) with what frequency do school-aged children with PANS receive formal special services at school?; (3) what types and severity of obsessions and compulsions are exhibited by school-aged children with PANS?; and (4) does OCD symptom severity classification predict the presence of a school special service plan? Parents (n = 208) of children with PANS participated in this study by completing a survey that included the Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale Parent Report (CY-BOCS-PR) and additional questions regarding child school performance and participation in formal special services at school. Anxiety and inattention, among a variety of other school-based problems, are reported at school in this population. Approximately 60% of the children received some form of school special services across their educational career. A variety of mild to severe obsessive-compulsive behaviors were reported in the children, though the severity of those behaviors did not predict the existence of a school special services plan. School psychologists must be prepared to evaluate children with PANS and recommend evidence-based interventions.