Starting your journey with PANS/PANDAS can feel like learning an entirely new language—one filled with medical jargon, complicated acronyms, and scientific concepts that can be overwhelming at first. I’ve been there, flipping through books and articles, trying to make sense of what all these terms meant and how they related to my child’s health. This glossary is here to make that process a little easier for you. It’s designed to give you clear, concise definitions of the most important terms you’ll encounter on this path, helping you feel more empowered and informed when navigating doctor visits, treatment options, and research.
Herbal and Natural Medicine Terms
Adaptogens
Natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and promote balance in physiological processes. Commonly used to enhance resilience to both physical and emotional stressors, adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can be powerful allies in managing the stress load that often accompanies chronic illness.
Alteratives
A class of herbs known for their ability to gradually restore proper function to the body, support detoxification, and enhance overall health. Examples include burdock root and red clover, which help the body eliminate waste and improve vitality.
Antioxidants
Compounds that protect the body from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic disease. Herbs like green tea, turmeric, and berries are rich in antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Demulcent
Soothing agents that calm and protect irritated or inflamed tissues, particularly within the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory tracts. Slippery elm and marshmallow root are classic examples, creating a protective barrier that promotes healing.
Phytochemicals
Natural compounds found in plants, such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols, that offer health benefits ranging from antioxidant protection to immune support. These compounds play a key role in reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases.
Genetics and Biochemistry
Amino Acids
The building blocks of proteins, amino acids play a critical role in nearly all biological processes, from muscle repair to neurotransmitter production. Essential amino acids must be obtained from the diet, making balanced nutrition vital.
COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase)
An enzyme that helps break down neurotransmitters like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Genetic variations in the COMT gene can influence mood, behavior, and stress response, often impacting children with PANS/PANDAS.
Epigenetics
The study of changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence, often influenced by environmental factors. Epigenetic changes can impact health and disease risk across generations.
Methylation
A vital biochemical process that regulates gene expression, detoxification, and cellular function. Methylation issues can lead to a range of health problems, from mood disorders to immune dysregulation, and are often influenced by genetic mutations like MTHFR.
MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase)
An enzyme involved in processing folate and maintaining proper methylation. Mutations in the MTHFR gene can affect homocysteine levels and overall detoxification, influencing everything from cardiovascular health to mood regulation.
PEMT (Phosphatidylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase)
An enzyme involved in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, important for liver function and lipid metabolism. Mutations in the PEMT gene can affect these processes.
SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms)
Small genetic variations that can affect how your body responds to environmental factors, medications, and even the foods you eat. Understanding your child’s SNPs can help tailor interventions for better health outcomes.
Infections and Co-Infections
Babesia
A parasite that infects red blood cells, often co-infecting with Lyme disease. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, and anemia, resembling those of malaria.
Bartonella
A bacterial co-infection commonly seen alongside Lyme disease. Bartonella can cause a range of symptoms, from fever and swollen lymph nodes to neurological issues like anxiety and irritability.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
A common virus known for causing mononucleosis but also implicated in triggering autoimmune responses, including PANS/PANDAS. EBV can linger in the body, contributing to chronic fatigue and immune dysregulation.
Lyme Disease
An infectious disease caused by Borrelia bacteria, typically transmitted by ticks. Lyme can trigger autoimmune responses and presents with symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, and neurological issues.
Mycoplasma
A genus of bacteria that lacks a cell wall, making it resistant to many common antibiotics. Mycoplasma infections can cause respiratory issues and may exacerbate PANS/PANDAS symptoms.
Immune System and Inflammation
Cytokines
Proteins that regulate immune and inflammatory responses. Elevated cytokines can drive inflammation, contributing to the neuropsychiatric symptoms often seen in PANS/PANDAS.
Histamine
A compound involved in immune responses, digestion, and neurotransmission. Excess histamine can cause allergic reactions and inflammation, contributing to symptoms like headaches, hives, and anxiety.
MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome)
A condition where mast cells release excessive inflammatory mediators, leading to a variety of symptoms like flushing, hives, brain fog, and gastrointestinal issues. MCAS often overlaps with PANS/PANDAS.
Natural Killer (NK) Cells
A type of immune cell critical for fighting viral infections and tumors. NK cell dysfunction can be a sign of immune dysregulation in chronic illnesses like PANS/PANDAS.
Neuroinflammation
Inflammation of the nervous tissue, often contributing to the neurological and psychiatric symptoms seen in PANS/PANDAS. Reducing neuroinflammation is key to managing flares.
Neurological and Central Nervous System Terms
Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)
A selective barrier that protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood while allowing essential nutrients to pass through. A compromised BBB can allow inflammatory molecules to enter the brain, contributing to neuroinflammation.
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter involved in mood, motivation, and motor control. Imbalances in dopamine levels can contribute to conditions like ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders, which are often seen in PANS/PANDAS.
Limbic System
The part of the brain involved in emotion, behavior, and long-term memory. Dysfunction in the limbic system can contribute to anxiety, mood swings, and aggression.
Microglia
Immune cells in the brain and spinal cord that act as the main form of active immune defense in the central nervous system. They play a critical role in maintaining brain health and responding to injury and infection.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). OCD is a hallmark symptom of PANS/PANDAS flares and requires both medical and therapeutic interventions.
Vagus Nerve
The vagus nerve, one of the longest nerves in the body, extends from the brainstem to the abdomen, innervating major organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. It plays a critical role in regulating the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting functions like heart rate, digestion, and immune response. The vagus nerve is important in maintaining overall health and homeostasis.
Detoxification and Environmental Health
Chelation
A process that binds heavy metals like lead and mercury to facilitate their removal from the body. Chelation can be done through natural substances like cilantro and chlorella or through medical chelation therapy.
Detoxification Pathways
The body’s natural systems for removing toxins, involving organs like the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system. Supporting these pathways is critical for reducing the toxic burden that can exacerbate PANS/PANDAS symptoms.
Herxheimer Reaction (Herx)
A reaction to endotoxins released by the death of harmful organisms within the body, often causing temporary worsening of symptoms. This reaction is common during treatments for infections like Lyme disease.
HMTA (Hair Mineral Tissue Analysis)
A non-invasive test that measures mineral levels and toxic metals in hair. It provides insights into long-term exposure to toxins and nutrient deficiencies.
Mold & Mycotoxin Illness
Health issues caused by exposure to mold and the toxic byproducts they produce. Symptoms can include respiratory issues, brain fog, fatigue, and immune dysregulation, often triggering PANS/PANDAS flares.
Gut Health
Intestinal Barrier
The lining of the intestines that controls what enters the bloodstream from the digestive tract, crucial for preventing leaky gut. A healthy intestinal barrier is essential for immune function and nutrient absorption.
Leaky Gut
A condition where the intestinal barrier is compromised, allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. Leaky gut is linked to various chronic diseases, including autoimmune disorders.
Treatment Modalities and Testing
Cunningham Panel
A diagnostic tool for PANS/PANDAS that measures autoantibodies affecting the brain. It helps identify autoimmune encephalitis and can guide treatment decisions.
IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin)
A treatment that delivers concentrated antibodies to modulate the immune system. It’s commonly used in PANS/PANDAS to reduce autoimmune activity and inflammation.
Plasmapheresis (PLEX)
A procedure that filters the blood to remove harmful antibodies, often used in severe autoimmune conditions like PANS/PANDAS when other treatments are ineffective.
Neurofeedback
A therapy that trains the brain to regulate its activity by providing real-time feedback on brainwave patterns. It’s used to improve focus, reduce anxiety, and manage other neurological symptoms.
Common Blood Work & Lab Terms
Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)
A test that detects autoantibodies attacking the body’s own tissues, often used to diagnose autoimmune conditions.
ASO Titer (Antistreptolysin O)
Measures antibodies against streptolysin O, a toxin produced by Streptococcus bacteria. Elevated levels can indicate a recent strep infection, which can trigger PANS flares.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
A marker of inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP can indicate systemic inflammation, common in PANS/PANDAS flares.
Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE)
These are different classes of antibodies that reflect various aspects of immune function. Imbalances can indicate immune dysregulation or chronic infections.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1 (TGF-β1)
A cytokine involved in immune regulation and inflammation, often elevated in chronic inflammatory conditions
This glossary is just the beginning of understanding the complex landscape of PANS/PANDAS. The more you learn, the better equipped you’ll be to advocate for your child and navigate the medical system with confidence. If there’s a term you’ve come across that’s not on this list, feel free to reach out—I’m always updating and expanding this resource to help other parents on their journey.