CLINICAL EVALUATION & TREATMENT OF PANS (PAEDIATRICS ACUTE ONSET NEUROPSYCHIATRIC SYNDROME) THROUGH ALTERNATIVE & COMPLIMENTARY MEDICINE - A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

Dr. Rakesh Khatana* and Dr. Anamika Khatana

ABSTRACT

Introduction: PANS is the acronym for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, is a clinical diagnosis given to children who have a dramatic – sometimes overnight – onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms including obsessions/compulsions or food restriction. They are often diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or an eating disorder, but the sudden onset of symptoms separates PANS from these other disorders. In addition, they may have symptoms of depression, irritability, anxiety, and have difficulty with schoolwork. Method: The present study is based on the literature search from Ayurveda compendia, recent pediatric textbooks, articles published in research journals from 1983 to 2019. Current State of knowledge: The cause of PANS is unknown in most cases but is thought to be triggered by infections, metabolic disturbances, and other inflammatory reactions. Bhoot Vidya (Ayurvedic psychiatry) is one of the specialties of Ayurveda and it deals with various psychiatric conditions caused by affliction of evil spirits or mythological personalities. Unmada (a broad term which consists of various psychiatric problems) is a major psychiatric condition described in Ayurvedic classical texts and it is characterized by deranged mental functions. Yog is Ayurvedic way to balance Satva (good qualities of mind), (Passionate, agitated), Tama (Laziness, lack of concentration) applicable in prevention of behavioural problems. Conclusion: Knowledge, education and proper expressions of code, conduct or etiquettes along with Ayurveda interventions such as use of Medhya (nervine tonic/inotropic) drugs, Panchakarma pre-procedures can prove to be a significant therapeutic way to combat behavioural disorders & required for early detection and prevention of PANS related problems.

Keywords: Psychotherapy, PANS, Anxiety, Unmada, Satva, Tama, Yog.