Tourette Syndrome

Definition

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a chronic disorder of the nervous system. It isa type of tic disorders. TS is known by its motor and vocal tics. These tics are rapid, involuntary movements or sounds that occur repeatedly.

Many people with TS also have one or more of the following problems:

• Obsessions
• Compulsions and ritualistic behaviors
• Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADD or ADHD)
• Learning disabilities
• Difficulties with impulse control
• Sleep disorders

Causes

The exact cause of TS is unknown. However, brain chemicals, called dopamine and serotonin are most likely involved.

There may be a genetic link to TS, although some have no known family history.

Genetic Material

TS is inherited through genes, which make up DNA.

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Risk Factors

Males are three to four times more likely to be affected. Other factors that may increase your risk of TS include:

• Family history of TS
• Having other tic disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Symptoms

Tics are the main symptoms of TS. To be TS, the tics must be:

• Both motor and vocal tics
• Be present for more than one year
• Start before age 18

Tics range from mild-to-severe. They can occur suddenly and vary in the amount of time that they last. Tics may temporarily decrease with concentration or distraction. During times of stress, they may occur more often.

The tics are often increased with stress and tension. Concentration or distraction may decrease them. Tics are divided into motor and vocal. The following are some common examples:

• Motor tics
  • Simple—eye blinking, head jerking, arm or shoulder shrugging
  • Complex—jumping, smelling, touching things or other people, twirling around
• Vocal tics
  • Simple—throat clearing, coughing, sniffing, grunting, yelping, barking
  • Complex—saying words or phrases that do not make sense in a given situation, saying obscene or socially unacceptable words—called coprolalia

While tics may occur throughout life, butsymptoms may improve during later teens years.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your doctor may order tests to rule out other medical conditions as the cause of the tics. Test may include MRI, CT scan, EEG,or blood tests.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Education and therapy are often parts of the treatment plan. In some cases, medicine may be needed.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent TS.