Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 4 to 18

Investigating markers in children with sudden-onset neuropsychiatric symptoms

Official title: Neurobiologic, Immunologic, and Rheumatologic Markers in Youth With PANS

Run by Stanford University · NCT02889016 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if certain biological markers in children with sudden neuropsychiatric symptoms can help us understand Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) better.

More Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages4 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
Enrollment500 (estimated)
SponsorStanford University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Palo Alto, California)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 2013
Main results expectedMarch 2028
Study endsMarch 2028
Registry record updatedOctober 6, 2016
Trial IDNCT02889016 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are children aged 1-18 who have recently been diagnosed with PANS and live within 90 miles of Stanford University.

Probably not a fit

Patients with other neuropsychiatric illnesses that could complicate the diagnosis of PANS may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the neurologic, immunologic, and rheumatologic markers in children diagnosed with Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). The study will recruit 500 children aged 1-18 who have experienced a recent onset of PANS symptoms, and these participants will be compared to 100 healthy age- and gender-matched controls. By examining various biological components, the research seeks to uncover underlying mechanisms associated with PANS, which may be triggered by infections or inflammation. The findings could provide insights into the condition and inform future treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a better understanding of PANS and improve diagnostic and treatment approaches for affected children.

How similar studies have gone: While this study explores a specific aspect of PANS, similar studies have shown promise in understanding autoimmune and neuropsychiatric disorders, indicating potential for success.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children with PANS

  1. Age 1-18 at onset of PANS
  2. Diagnosis of PANS: abrupt onset of OCD or food restriction, and at least two of the following associated symptoms: frequent urination, worsening handwriting/cognition, inattention, anorexia, separation anxiety, oppositionality, irritability/rage outbursts, and emotional lability.
  3. Patients must live within 90 miles of Stanford University and have a new onset of PANS illness
  4. Patients must have an established pediatrician within 90 miles of Stanford University for 3 years.
* Healthy Controls

  1. Age 4-18
  2. No psychiatric diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any neuropsychiatric illness that may obscure the clear diagnosis of PANS

Where it's running

  • Stanford University
    Palo Alto, California, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.