Facts on Tourette’s Syndrome
from NAMI Internet Site
Tourette’s disorder, or
Tourette’s syndrome (TS) as it is frequently called, is a neurological
syndrome. The essential feature of
Tourette’s is multiple tics that are sudden, rapid, recurrent, non-rhythmic,
stereotypical, purposeless movements, or vocalizations.
What are symptoms of Tourette’s
Syndrome?
· Both multiple motor and one or more vocal tics are present at some time during the illness, although not simultaneously.
· Symptoms occur many times a day nearly every day or intermittently throughout a span of more than one year.
· Significant impairment or marked distress in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
· Onset occurs before the age of 18.
What are the first tics that may
be characteristics of TS?
Usually, the first tic, such as rapid blinking of the eyes or twitches of the mouth, may be the first indication a child may have TS. Involuntary sounds, such as throat clearing and sniffing or tics of the limbs may be an initial sign in other children.
What are other symptoms associated with Tourette’s Syndrome?
Approximately 50% of patients meet criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and this may be the more impairing problem. Approximately one-third of patients meet criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or have other forms of anxiety. Learning disabilities are common as well as developmental stuttering. Social discomfort, self-consciousness, and depressed mood frequently occur, especially as children reach adolescence. Although the cause has not been definitely established, there is considerable evidence that TS arises from abnormal metabolism of dopamine, a neurotransmitter. Other neurotransmitters may be involved.
Can TS be inherited?
Genetic studies indicate that TS is inherited as a dominate gene, but different family members may have dissimilar symptoms. A parent has a 50% chance of passing the gene to one of his/her children. The range of symptomatology varies from multiple; sever tics to very minor tics with varying degrees of attention deficit-disorder (ADD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Are boys or girls more likely to
have TS?
The sex of the child can influence the expression of the TS gene. Girls with the gene have a 70% chance of displaying symptoms; boys with the gene have a 99% chance of displaying symptoms. The ratio of boys and girls with TS is 3:1
How is TS diagnosed?
No blood analysis, x-ray, or other medical test exists to identify TS. Diagnosis is made by observing the signs or systems as described above. A doctor may wish to use a CAT scan, EEG, or other test to rule out other disorders that could be confused with TS. Some medications cause tics, so it is important to inform the professional doing the assessment of any prescribed, over-the –counter, or street drugs to which the patient may have been exposed.
What are the benefits of seeking early treatment of TS symptoms?
When a child’s behavior is viewed as disruptive, frightening, or bizarre by peers, family, teachers, or friends, it provokes ridicule and rejection. Teachers and other children can feel threatened and exclude the child from activities or interpersonal relationships. A child’s socialization difficulties will increase as he reaches adolescence. Therefore, it is very important for the child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being that treatment be sought as early as possible.
What treatments are available for
TS?
Not everyone is disabled by his or her symptoms, so medications may not be necessary. When symptoms interfere with functioning, medication can effectively improve attention span, decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity, tics, and OCD symptomatology. Relaxation techniques and behavior therapy may be useful for tics, ADD symptoms and OCD symptoms.
How does TS affect the education
of a child or adolescent with TS?
TS alone does not affect the
intelligence of a child. Many children
who have TS, however, also have learning disabilities or attention
deficits. Frequently, special education
may be needed for a child with TS.
Teachers should be given factual information about the disorder and if
learning difficulties appear, the child should be referred to the school system
for assessment of other learning problems.
How Common is TS?
TS are felt to be relatively common, although the exact prevalence is unknown. Estimates range from 2.9 to 49.5 per 100,000 children, but this may be an underestimation since many mild cases probably go undiagnosed.
What is the course of TS?
Some people with TS show a marked improvement in their late teens or early twenties. However, tics as well as ADD and OCD behavior may wax and wane over the course of the life span.
Reviewed by Charles T. Gordian, III, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine.
For more information on mental illness contact:
Alliance for the Mentally Ill
NAMI of Greater Chicago
1536 W. Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
312-563-0445
Fax: 312-563-0467