Objective: This study sought to determine functional limitations in children with Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS), Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Infection-Triggered Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder (PITAND) during and after exacerbation, along with frequency of occupational therapy (OT) intervention, and impact of OT on return to baseline post-exacerbation.

Method: Parents of 111 affected children completed a retrospective online survey based on the OT Practice Framework II.

Result: Problems during exacerbation were reported in all 18 areas of daily living, and all 17 body functions and performance skills. Few of these returned to baseline post-exacerbation. Few children received OT services. No significant association was noted between receiving OT services in the past and return to baseline.

Discussion: The impact of PANDAS/PITAND/PANS may be more pervasive than previously identified, and baseline function may not return post-exacerbation. Future research should identify best-practice for OT during and after exacerbation.