PANS/PANDAS: The Diagnosis Behind Your Kid's Sudden Behavior Change | Episode 37 with Dr. Benton Marino

Dr. Benton Marino is a pediatrician based in New Orleans who joined us to break down the misunderstood and often misdiagnosed conditions known as PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections). We talked through the science, the symptoms, and the systemic barriers families face when seeking answers—plus, Lauren shares her powerful personal story of navigating her own child’s diagnosis.We covered what causes PANS/PANDAS, how they present in kids, why many pediatricians still don’t recognize them, and what treatment can look like. Whether you’re a parent, provider, or someone just trying to make sense of sudden behavioral changes in a child, this episode is packed with insight and real talk. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.Follow The Little Brain CampaignInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/