PRINTER'S NO. 1176
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SENATE RESOLUTION
No.
191
Session of
2017
INTRODUCED BY SCHWANK, EICHELBERGER, FONTANA, FARNESE,
GREENLEAF, BREWSTER, AUMENT, RAFFERTY AND HUGHES,
SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
INTRODUCED AND ADOPTED, SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
A RESOLUTION
Designating October 9, 2017, as "PANDAS Awareness Day" in
Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders
associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) describes the
appearance of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), tic disorders
and other symptoms in children following a streptococcal
infection; and
WHEREAS, Symptoms identified with PANDAS include motor and
vocal tics and personality and behavioral changes such as ADHD,
separation anxiety, mood changes, aggression and irritability,
eating disorders, sleep disturbance, enuresis and deterioration
in motor and cognitive abilities; and
WHEREAS, The onset of symptoms is sudden and dramatic; and
WHEREAS, The National Institute of Mental Health is currently
conducting research relating to PANDAS and more effective
treatment options; and
WHEREAS, Current research suggests a possibility that
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antibodies produced in response to streptococcal infections
attack basal gaglia, the area of the brain associated with
movement and behavior; and
WHEREAS, With no currently approved lab tests or medical
consensus on diagnosis and treatment, clinicians rely on
clinical criteria and their own subjective judgment in
diagnosing it; and
WHEREAS, The PANDAS Network, a nonprofit organization that
raises awareness of PANDAS, estimates that as many as 1 in 200
children may have PANDAS in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Treatment options for children are the same as for
OCD and tic disorders, including cognitive behavioral therapy
and anti-obsessional medications, with antibiotics and
intravenous immunoglobulin also sometimes used; and
WHEREAS, Increased attention on PANDAS among the public and
medical community can encourage increased support for further
research and greater awareness by medical professionals;
therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate designate October 9, 2017, as
"PANDAS Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Senate commend parents, advocacy
organizations and health professionals working to improve the
awareness and treatment of PANDAS in their communities.
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