Cerebral Folate Deficiency: Understanding Its Role in Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) is an often-overlooked condition characterised by low levels of folate in the cerebrospinal fluid, despite normal levels in the blood. Increasing evidence suggests that CFD may play an important role in a range of neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, memory difficulties and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

In this upcoming AONM webinar Dr. Nancy O’Hara, a leading specialist in PANS, PANDAS and Basal Ganglia Encephalitis (BGE), will explore the underlying mechanisms of cerebral folate deficiency, its clinical manifestations and its potential relationship with infection-triggered neuropsychiatric conditions.

Drawing on scientific research and her extensive clinical experience, Dr. O’Hara will discuss the challenges of recognising and diagnosing CFD, including the role of folate receptor autoantibodies and genetic variations that may influence folate metabolism and transport.

The presentation will also explore practical approaches to assessment and management.

In this webinar, you’ll discover:

• The underlying physiology of cerebral folate deficiency and its potential effects on neurological and psychiatric function
• The relationship between CFD, Basal Ganglia Encephalitis (BGE) and neuropsychiatric symptoms in children
• The current scientific evidence surrounding CFD, including relevant genetic variations and their clinical significance
• Approaches to assessment and diagnosis, including folate receptor autoantibody testing and genomic analysis
• Potential therapeutic strategies, including dietary interventions and the clinical use of folinic acid

Whether you’re a healthcare practitioner working with children experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms, or looking to deepen your understanding of the relationship between folate metabolism, immune dysfunction and neurological health, this webinar offers an opportunity to explore the emerging research and its potential clinical applications.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:

Dr. Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH is a board-certified paediatrician specialising in PANS, PANDAS, Basal Ganglia Encephalitis (BGE) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. She is a leading educator and mentor to clinicians across the United States and internationally, helping medical professionals recognise, diagnose and manage these complex conditions.

Dr. O’Hara graduated with highest honours from Bryn Mawr College and attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, where she was recognised by the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She earned her Master of Public Health degree from the University of Pittsburgh, where she also completed her paediatric residency, chief residency and general paediatric fellowship.

Before beginning her medical career, Dr. O’Hara worked with children with autism. She subsequently practised as a general paediatrician before establishing her integrative consultation practice in 1999, specialising in children with complex neurodevelopmental, neurological and immune-related conditions.

With decades of clinical experience, Dr. O’Hara continues to support families and educate healthcare practitioners in the assessment and management of conditions including PANS/PANDAS, BGE, ADHD, OCD, Lyme disease and autism spectrum disorder.