, more on PANDAS

[Guest guest]

,

One more thing I thought you would be interested in... this from the NIH as

well... it seems that they ARE trying antibiotics to see if they help.

Current NIMH Research

The NIMH currently has two active research protocols for PANDAS:

#1: Plasma exchange for PANDAS Study

Children who suffer from moderate to severe symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive

Disorder and/or tic disorders and who meet criteria for PANDAS, will be

considered for a open treatment trial of Plasma Exchange treatments (PEX).

The goal of the study is to learn about changes in the immune system.

Upon completion of the initial screening process, children will receive a

two to three day comprehensive baseline evaluation to determine if they are

eligible for the plasma exchange. If a child is accepted into the study, he

or she will receive 5 plasma exchange procedures. The series of 5

procedures will require a 9 to 11 day stay at the NIMH. Children who

participate in the study will be evaluated in the NIMH outpatient clinic

over the next year at monthly intervals for the first 6 months, and every

other month for the next 6 months.

All study related medical care, travel, lodging, and meals are provided free

of charge.

#2: PANDAS Antibiotic Prophylaxis Study

PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with

Streptococcus) is a subtype of obsessive compulsive disorder and/or tic

disorders in which symptoms appear to worsen following streptococcal

infections (strep. throat). The use of specific antibiotics may decrease or

prevent the occurrence of strep. throat and therefore prevent worsening of

OCD and/or tic symptoms.

Upon completion of the initial screening process, children will receive a

one day comprehensive baseline evaluation to determine eligibility for the

antibiotic prophylaxis protocol. Participants in this study will receive one

of two different antibiotics being used to treat strep throat. The

prophylaxis study is one year long and includes monthly visits to the NIMH

for assessment and care. Antibiotics and ongoing care are provided free of

charge.