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Molecular mimicry might figure in both Sydenham chorea (SC) and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcus (PANDAS). According to this hypothesis, antibodies against streptococcal bacteria cross-react with neurons in the basal ganglia. These researchers examined the incidence of such anti–basal ganglia antibodies (ABGA) among 50 children with OCD seen consecutively in a specialty clinic, 50 with non-neurologic autoimmune diseases, 100 with nonimmune neurological illnesses, and 40 with uncomplicated streptococcal infections. The researchers also measured antistreptolysin (ASLO) titers and conducted structured diagnostic interviews to determine OCD severity as well as types of obsessions and compulsions.
Fort…