02/22/2026
Progress…
For decades, families affected by PANS/PANDAS have said the same thing:
Something happened after strep.
Now, National Geographic is highlighting new research showing how strep infections can disrupt immune signaling and, in some cases, trigger autoimmune reactions that affect the brain.
The article explains that Group A Streptococcus can trigger immune responses that do not always resolve when the sore throat goes away (and we know one doesn’t even need acute signs of infection). Sometimes, through a process called molecular mimicry, the immune system can become confused and start attacking healthy tissue, including parts of the nervous system.
The article specifically mentions PANDAS as a post-streptococcal autoimmune condition marked by the onset of OCD, tics, or both.
Science is starting to confirm what many families have known for years.
As we learn more about how infections affect the immune system and the brain, we have a better chance of recognizing these problems early and treating them properly.
When we understand how infections can affect both immune and brain health, we get closer to preventing years of misdiagnosis, wrong psychiatric placements, and needless suffering.
The conversation is changing, and that is a sign of progress.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/health/article/strep-throat-autoimmune-disease-chronic-fatigue
