PANDAS/PANS: What About Other Testing?
PANDAS/PANS: What About Other Testing?
All healing journeys start with an accurate diagnosis.
In previous blog posts, we shared Dr. Adame's PANDAS/PANS diagnostic approach to identify:
We are often asked about additional testing, including functional medicine tests such as gut microbiome testing, Cunningham Panel, long hauler COVID index, "more accurate" Lyme testing, mycotoxin testing, specific viral load testing, and more.
As we wrap up, we want to gently acknowledge how overwhelming it can feel to navigate all of the testing options that are discussed online and in parent communities. It’s completely natural to want to leave no stone unturned when your child is struggling.
At the same time, Dr. Adame’s approach is guided by a simple, thoughtful principle: testing should meaningfully change what we do next. Many of the more extensive tests, especially those that only can be done in certain labs, such as advanced inflammatory markers, detailed gut panels, or specialized toxin screens, often do not alter the treatment plan in a way that improves outcomes.
Instead, we closely follow your child’s clinical symptoms to understand whether inflammation is improving and whether treatment is working.
For example, gut-focused tests frequently lead to recommendations like increasing whole, plant-based foods, fiber, and protein. These are foundational strategies that Dr. Adame already incorporates into care, regardless of test results. Similarly, while concerns like mold exposure are absolutely valid, we begin with standard allergy testing which includes mold allergy and then focus on how your child is actually progressing. If a child isn’t improving as expected, we thoughtfully expand our evaluation and treatment rather than relying on broad testing upfront.
Our goal is always to balance thoroughness with clarity and avoiding unnecessary testing while staying fully responsive to your child’s needs.
Most importantly, we walk this journey with you, adjusting care based on how your child is feeling and healing over time.
As always, algorithms and protocols are starting points. Dr. Adame and her team meet patients and their families where they are in their journey, whether the child's symptoms started just weeks earlier or they have already received the entire PANDAS protocol including IVIG. She will adjust the diagnostic strategy depending on previous work up completed, history, and treatment goals.
Dr. Adame believes in shared decision-making with families.
Are you ready to join the Culver Peds PANDAS/PANS Clinic? The first step is to register for a group info session to determine if we are the right practice for your child.
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