Immune and Endocrine Function in Child and Adolescent Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

This chapter discusses immune and endocrine function in child and adolescent obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It begins by examining L. Selling's theory for autoimmune and infection triggered causes of anxiety. It then questions what the pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcus (PANDAS) phenotype looks like. Next, it looks at the role of Group A Strep (GAS) in causing infections. This chapter then explores the links between GAS and OCD/Tics. Support for infection triggered pediatric neuropsychiatric disorders is discussed. Controversies in establishing an infectious trigger are considered. Other topics covered include the best evaluation and treatment options; antibiotics; neurological and cardiac concerns; and, endocrine dysregulation in anxiety. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)