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Mom Fights For Daughter's Diagnosis Amid PANS Mystery
14 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A nine-year-old experienced a sudden decline after an infection, diagnosed as PANS.
- Her mother's instincts led to a PANS diagnosis after doctors suggested anxiety.
- Effective treatment brought the child back from a state of terror and self-harm.
A nine-year-old girl's life dramatically changed overnight, leading her mother to a desperate search for answers beyond typical anxiety diagnoses. The child experienced sudden obsessive-compulsive symptoms and extreme fear, escalating to self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Her mother, Crystal, refused to accept initial diagnoses, suspecting a deeper issue.
After extensive research and seeking a specialist, the family identified Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS), a condition often triggered by infections that causes abrupt behavioral and psychological decline. The diagnostic journey was challenging and costly, with the family spending over $10,000 out-of-pocket for testing and treatment not covered by insurance.
With the right medical intervention, including antibiotics and a low-dose antipsychotic, the child has significantly recovered. She is now re-engaging in activities and enjoying life, a stark contrast to her previous state of terror. Crystal now advocates to support other families facing similar, often misunderstood, pediatric neurological conditions.
