Common throat infection may affect kids’ brains

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Researchers have found that a common throat infection can have unexpected effects on children’s brains, potentially altering neural pathways and impacting behavior. The condition, often accompanied by severe pain and distress, may trigger immune responses that affect brain development. These findings highlight the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent long-term neurological and psychological consequences in affected children.

Source

Wald ER, Eickhoff J, Flood GE, et al. Estimate of the incidence of PANDAS and PANS in 3 primary care populations. Front Pediatr. 2023;11:1170379. Published 2023 Sep 21. doi:10.3389/fped.2023.1170379

Additional Reading

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250828-strep-throat-how-a-common-infection-can-rewire-childrens-brains

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/pandas.html#:~:text=using%20baby%20talk%2C%20acting%20clingy,Pediatric%20Acute%2Donset%20Neuropsychiatric%20Syndrome.

https://pandasnetwork.org/understanding-pandas/#:~:text=The%20Impact-,PANDAS/PANS%20Defined,beginners%20guide%20to%20learn%20more.