Suicidal Obsession in a Case of Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome

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Author Details : Abhijit R. Rozatkar, Arti Dhingra

Volume : 1, Issue : 1, Year : 2015

Article Page : 24-28

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Abstract

Post infectious neuropsychiatric problems have been frequently reported in last century. A variety of neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety disorders, mood features with co-existing obsessive compulsive symptoms and/ or tics have been reported with pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associate with streptococcus (PANDAS). We discuss a case of a young girl who developed obsessive suicidal ideation following acute throat infection. Association of Group A, beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) with her symptoms was not proved and hence the newer versions- Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS), which is a broader entity was considered. PANS is postulated to be much broader than PANDAS, including in its rubric, not only disorders potentially associated with a preceding infection but also those without an apparent environmental precipitant or immune dysfunction. Management of suicidal ideation in children requires assessment and treatment by team of mental health professionals, which implies liason with specialized mental health care services. However, sudden onset of suicidal ideation may suggest a non-psychiatric etiology. Considering the public health importance of suicide in pediatric age group we suggest considering PANS as differential diagnosis for an acutely suicidal children.

Keywords: Suicidal obsession, Group A beta hemolytic streptococci, Pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with streptococci, Pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome

How to cite : Rozatkar A R, Dhingra A, Suicidal Obsession in a Case of Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. IP Indian J Neurosci 2015;1(1):24-28

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