Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome is defined as a neurological disorder that is characterized by tics. Tics are involuntary, rapid, and sudden movements or vocalizations that occur repeatedly. Tourette Syndrome have both multiple motors and vocal tics that happen at different times. Tics occur many times, at random times, throughout the day, almost everyday. This typically occurs for more than one year. Tics can come and go for weeks or sometimes even months at a time. This all happens before the age of 18. Tourette Syndrome has been researched for years, and it is still an ongoing process. Scientists believe that it has to do with an abnormal metabolism of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. It is genetically transmitted. Parents with the gene of Tourette Syndrome have a 50% chance of giving that gene to the child. Females that have the gene of Tourette Syndrome have a 70% chance while the males have a 99% chance of showing signs of this specific syndrome. Persons with this syndrome may have connections to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Other disabilities could possibly include Disinhibition (Difficulty with Impulse Control), Dyslexia and other learning disabilities, and several sleeping disorders.

Peiss, Raenna (n.d.). The Facts About Tourette Syndrome. Retrieved February 2, 2010 from http://tourette13.tripod.com/

Jankovic (2007). Jankovic NEJM Article on Tourette's. Retrieved February 2, 2010 from http://tourettenowwhat.tripod.com/jankovicNEJM.htm