Tourette syndrome is a chronic neurological condition generally characterized by motor and vocal tics. This eMedTV resource offers an in-depth look at the condition, including symptoms, treatment options, and prognosis.
The causes of Tourette syndrome are unclear, but, as this eMedTV page explains, research shows a link to problems with the basal ganglia, frontal lobes, and cortex. Genetics may also be a factor, although it's unclear which genes are involved.
Early Tourette syndrome symptoms usually first appear during childhood and consist of motor and vocal tics. This eMedTV segment lists other common signs and symptoms, and explains how tics vary in type, frequency, location, and severity.
It is recommended that a Tourette syndrome diagnosis be made only after symptoms are prevalent for a year. This eMedTV resource explains the diagnostic process in detail and lists tests that are used, such as MRI, CT, and EEG scans.
Because the condition is incurable, this eMedTV article explains how Tourette syndrome treatment is focused on suppressing symptoms that interfere with functioning. Treatment options for controlling tics and behavioral problems are also discussed.
There are certain drawbacks of having Tourette syndrome, and education issues are a common concern. This eMedTV segment discusses options available for students with Tourette syndrome and explains how a normal education is still possible.
Although there is no cure for Tourette syndrome, prognosis is good, and, as this eMedTV resource explains, many people's physical symptoms (like tics) tend to improve over time. Behavioral symptoms may persist into adulthood.
This eMedTV Web page explains Tourette syndrome research findings and the importance of participating in clinical trials. Current areas of focus include new stimulant treatments, behavioral treatments, and genetic factors.
This eMedTV page explains Tourette syndrome and who it affects in detail, including statistics on ethnic groups and gender. It also explains that early symptoms are usually first seen in childhood, between the ages of 7 and 10.
