Related concepts:

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome, tics, PANDA

Introduction to tourette syndrome:

The great English poet, author, and conversationalist, Dr. Samuel Johnson, is believed to have had Tourette syndrome, complete with both facial and vocal tics. His towering success in his day -- before useful medicines had been developed - can be an inspiration and encouragement to today’s families living with Tourette’s.

What is tourette syndrome?

Tourette syndrome is named for Georges Gilles de la Tourette who first described the condition in 1885. Tics (involuntary, non-rhythmic movements) are the hallmark of the disease.

Brain scans and EEGs show differences in the brains of children with Tourette’s. These changes are influenced by genetics, neurobiology, and by what is going on in the child’s life.

Who gets tourette syndrome?

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome affects about one out of every 2,000 people. Tourette syndrome occurs worldwide, in all ethnic groups – though it is most common among whites. The condition usually runs in families. It is three to four times more common in boys than in girls, and usually begins before the age of seven.

What are the symptoms of tourette syndrome?

Tics are the classic symptom of this condition. In many children, these are so mild as to hardly be noticed. In others, the tics are severe and intrusive.

Motor tics are most people’s first symptoms. These may be simple, sudden, involuntary movements such as eye blinking, facial grimacing, lip licking, or fist clenching. They may also be more complex tasks such as chewing a shirt, hopping, or clapping. Whatever the movement, it is outside the child’s control - although this is often followed by a voluntary movement in an attempt to disguise the tic.

Vocal tics can also be a symptom of Tourette’s. They are also outside of a child’s control. Grunting, throat clearing, sniffling, hissing, clicking, whistling, and barking are simple vocal tics. Coprolalia, the involuntary speaking of obscenities, is a complex vocal tic, and the most famous symptom of Tourette syndrome. Echolalia (the compulsion to repeat words that are heard), and palilalia (the compulsion to repeat one’s own words) can also be Tourette’s symptoms.

Physical exertion, intense concentration, and sleep all suppress the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. I know a delightful man with Tourette’s who is very successful as a professional drummer (without medication).

Emotional stress, on the other hand, brings out the symptoms.

Children with Tourette’s also have a higher risk of other problems, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Is tourette syndrome contagious?

Tourette’s can be triggered by some infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease or strep. PANDA (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder) is the name given when antibodies to streptococcal infections trigger the symptoms.

How long does tourette syndrome last?

For most, Tourette’s is a lifelong condition. Thankfully, most have a significant decrease in their symptoms over time.

How is tourette syndrome diagnosed?

Tourette’s is often suspected based on the history and physical examination.