Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. The disorder is named for Dr. Georges Gilles de la Tourette, the pioneering French neurologist who in 1885 first described the condition in an 86-year-old French noblewoman.

Symptoms

The early symptoms of Tourette Syndrome are typically noticed first in childhood, with the average onset between the ages of 3 and 9 years. Tics are classified as either simple or complex. Simple motor tics are sudden, brief, repetitive movements that involve a limited number of muscle groups. Some of the more common simple tics include eye blinking and other eye movements, facial grimacing, shoulder shrugging, and head or shoulder jerking.

Causes

The exact cause of Tourette Syndrome is unknown, but it is well established that both genetic and environmental factors are involved. Brain abnormalities may also play a role. Certain chemicals in the brain that transmit nerve impulses (neurotransmitters), including dopamine and serotonin, might play a role.

Diagnosis

There's no specific test that can diagnose Tourette syndrome. The diagnosis is based on the history of your signs and symptoms. The criteria used to diagnose Tourette syndrome include: Both multiple motor and one or more vocal tics present at some time during the illness, although not necessarily simultaneously.

Treatment

There's no cure for Tourette syndrome. Treatment is aimed at controlling tics that interfere with everyday activities and functioning. When tics aren't severe, treatment might not be necessary.

See also

• Neurological disorders
• Tics
• Dopamine
• Serotonin

References

Tourette Syndrome Resources
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