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Andersen K, Cavanna AE, Szejko N, Müller‐Vahl KR, Hedderly T, Skov L, Mol Debes N. A Critical Examination of the Clinical Diagnosis of Functional Tic-like Behaviors. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2024; 11:1065-1071. [PMID: 38940477 PMCID: PMC11452787 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.14150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the COVID-19 pandemic, movement disorder clinics have seen an increase in patients with an unusual type of tic-like symptoms: young adults with abrupt onset complex behaviors. It was quickly suspected that these patients suffered from functional neurological symptoms, later named Functional Tic-Like Behaviors (FTLB). Subsequent research on the differential diagnosis between FTLB and tics has been substantial and led to the development of diagnostic checklists. OBJECTIVES We conducted a theoretical reappraisal of the FTLB literature to clarify the validity of the concept and its diagnostic implications. METHODS This paper addresses several key aspects of the current FTLB literature: circular reasoning, the complications of the FTLB phenomenology and demographics, the impact of FTLB on tic literature at large, and issues with alignment of the FTLB concept with the diagnostic criteria for functional disorders. RESULTS The clinical approach to FTLB might involve circular reasoning due to a lack of clinical benchmarks. The FTLB phenomenology and demographics may need more work to ensure a lack of bias and a proper description of this patient group including a clear distinction from tics. The impact of the FTLB discussion on the wider literature needs consideration. The validation of positive signs may help with both these endeavors and pave way to the inclusion of FTLB within psychiatric classification systems. Furthermore, the coexistence of FTLB and tics within the same patient needs to be addressed. CONCLUSION More research may be needed to fully establish the diagnosis of FTLB and differentiate it from tics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Andersen
- Department of PediatricsCopenhagen University Hospital‐Herlev and GentofteHerlevDenmark
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Andrea Eugenio Cavanna
- Department of NeuropsychiatryBSMHFT and University of BirminghamBirminghamUK
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Brain CentreAston UniversityBirminghamUK
- School of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Milano‐BicoccaMilanItaly
| | - Natalia Szejko
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
- Department of BioethicsMedical University of WarsawWarsawPoland
| | - Kirsten R. Müller‐Vahl
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Tammy Hedderly
- Guys and St Thomas Hospital and KCL Faculty of Life Sciences and MedicineEvelina London Children's HospitalLondonUK
| | - Liselotte Skov
- Department of PediatricsCopenhagen University Hospital‐Herlev and GentofteHerlevDenmark
| | - Nanette Mol Debes
- Department of PediatricsCopenhagen University Hospital‐Herlev and GentofteHerlevDenmark
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
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Müller‐Vahl KR, Pisarenko A, Fremer C, Haas M, Jakubovski E, Szejko N. Functional Tic-Like Behaviors: A Common Comorbidity in Patients with Tourette Syndrome. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2024; 11:227-237. [PMID: 38468554 PMCID: PMC10928340 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.13932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comorbid functional tic-like behaviors (FTB) have been described only rarely in patients with Tourette syndrome (TS). OBJECTIVES We present the first large sample of patients suffering from TS and FTB to raise awareness of this clinical presentation and to guide how to differentiate one from the other. METHODS We analyzed clinical data of 71 patients (n = 27 [38.0%] female, mean age: 21.5, range: 11-55) with TS + FTB. RESULTS In the majority of patients, FTB started abruptly on average 15 years after tic onset with "treatment-resistant" complex movements and ("coprophenomena-like") vocalizations preceded by timely related psychological stressors. Psychological evaluation revealed evidence for internal conflicts (79%), emotional dysregulation (56%), and maintaining factors (70%). About one third of patients had a positive history for further medically unexplained symptoms. Compared to a large TS sample (n = 1032), patients with TS + FTB were more likely to be female, and presented significantly more common with "coprophenomena-like" symptoms, atypical influential factors, atypical descriptions of premonitory sensations, and higher rates of comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder and "self-injurious" behavior. CONCLUSIONS Based on our data it can be assumed that FTB is a common comorbidity in TS, similar to functional overlay in other movement disorders and epilepsy. Before classifying a patient as suffering from treatment-resistant TS, FTB should be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R. Müller‐Vahl
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Anna Pisarenko
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Carolin Fremer
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Martina Haas
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Ewgeni Jakubovski
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | - Natalia Szejko
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and PsychotherapyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
- Department of BioethicsMedical University of WarsawWarsawPoland
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Zelnik N. Drug and Non-drug Treatment of Tourette Syndrome. CURRENT DRUG THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1574885514666191121141923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple repetitive motor and vocal tics. In most patients, its clinical course has a waxing and waning nature and most patients, usually children, will benefit from tolerant environmental and psychoeducation. Patients with more complicated tics, in particular, those with significant comorbidities will require drug therapy.Objective:The present paper is a mini-review of the current therapeutic arsenal for TS with reference to drug and non-drug management approach.Methods:A systematic survey of medical literature regarding the treatment decision making and the reported clinical trials or accumulating experience with different medications or other therapeutic modalities which were proven beneficial over the years.Results:Reviewing the literature indicates that dopamine antagonists, such as haloperidol and pimozoide, are the most reliable agents in terms of treatment response. Due to numerous adverse effects, newer atypical anti-psychotic drugs have been shown effective. Other widely accepted medications include alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, benzamides, dopamine depleting agents, benzodiazepines and dopamine depleting agents. In more selective and intractable cases botulinum toxin, dopamine agonists and cannabinoids should be also considered. Non-pharmacologic therapies reported beneficial effects, which include on the one hand, non-invasive behavioral techniques, such as comprehensive behavior therapy for tics. While on the other hand, in cases with particular protracted pharmaco-resistant tics electric stimulation techniques, such as deep brain stimulation, have been shown to be successful.Conclusion:Currently, there are numerous multifarious options for treatment of tics and other comorbid symptoms of TS. Nevertheless, treatment options and decision-making algorithms are still a clinical challenge.Area Covered:A step by step decision-making and various drugs and non-pharmacologic modalities appropriate for the management of TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathanel Zelnik
- Child Neurology and Development, Carmel Medical Center & Clalit Health Services, Haifa District, The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this article is to present current information on the phenomenology, epidemiology, comorbidities, and pathophysiology of tic disorders and discuss therapy options. It is hoped that a greater understanding of each of these components will provide clinicians with the necessary information to deliver thoughtful and optimal care to affected individuals. RECENT FINDINGS Recent advances include the finding that Tourette syndrome is likely due to a combination of several different genes, both low-effect and larger-effect variants, plus environmental factors. Pathophysiologically, increasing evidence supports involvement of the cortical-basal ganglia-thalamocortical circuit; however, the primary location and neurotransmitter remain controversial. Behavioral therapy is first-line treatment, and pharmacotherapy is based on tic severity. Several newer therapeutic agents are under investigation (eg, valbenazine, deutetrabenazine, cannabinoids), and deep brain stimulation is a promising therapy. SUMMARY Tics, defined as sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic motor movements or vocalizations, are essential components of Tourette syndrome. Although some tics may be mild, others can cause significant psychosocial, physical, and functional difficulties that affect daily activities. In addition to tics, most affected individuals have coexisting neuropsychological difficulties (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, mood disorder, disruptive behaviors, schizotypal traits, suicidal behavior, personality disorder, antisocial activities, and sleep disorders) that can further impact social and academic activities or employment.
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Robakis D. How Much Do We Know about Adult-onset Primary Tics? Prevalence, Epidemiology, and Clinical Features. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 7:441. [PMID: 28546883 PMCID: PMC5440657 DOI: 10.7916/d8sq95nd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tic disorders are generally considered to be of pediatric onset; however, reports of adult-onset tics exist in the literature. Tics can be categorized as either primary or secondary, with the latter being the larger group in adults. Primary or idiopathic tics that arise in adulthood make up a subset of tic disorders whose epidemiologic and clinical features have not been well delineated. METHODS Articles to be included in this review were identified by searching PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science using the terms adult- and late-onset tics, which resulted in 120 unique articles. Duplicates were removed. Citing references were identified using Google Scholar; all references were reviewed for relevance. RESULTS The epidemiologic characteristics, clinical phenomenology, and optimal treatment of adult-onset tics have not been ascertained. Twenty-six patients with adult-onset, primary tics were identified from prior case reports. The frequency of psychiatric comorbidities may be lower in adults than in children, and obsessive compulsive disorder was the most common comorbidity. Adult-onset primary tics tend to wax and wane, occur predominantly in males, are often both motor and phonic in the same individual, and are characterized by a poor response to treatment. DISCUSSION We know little about adult-onset tic disorders, particularly ones without a secondary association or cause. They are not common, and from the limited data available, appear to share some but not all features with childhood tics. Further research will be important in gaining a better understanding of the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne Robakis
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Schaefer SM, Chow CA, Louis ED, Robakis D. Tic Exacerbation in Adults with Tourette Syndrome: A Case Series. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 7:450. [PMID: 28289551 PMCID: PMC5344964 DOI: 10.7916/d8ff3z1q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Tourette syndrome (TS) has been described as peaking in adolescence with subsequent regression. We report patients who were diagnosed with TS during childhood who experienced a latent period (significant reduction in or absence of tics) followed by tic re-emergence in adulthood. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of outpatients over age 21 seen at the Yale neurology clinic between January 2012 and July 2016 who were diagnosed with childhood-onset tics, and who experienced a latent period of greater than 1 year followed by an exacerbation. Results Sixteen patients were identified. The mean latent period was 16 years. Ten patients (62.5%) identified an exacerbation trigger, most commonly changes in substance use (five patients). Seven patients (43.8%) reported worsening of tics since childhood. Six patients (37.5%) had received pharmacological intervention for tics as children, and 15 patients (93.8%) as adults. Six of 15 patients (40.0%) had an effective response from those pharmacological intervention(s). Discussion Our study demonstrates that the decline in symptoms as patients age may represent temporary improvement. The latent period lasted years in our patients, different from the more rapid waxing and waning in children. A change in substance use was an important trigger. Requests for pharmacological intervention were not necessarily correlated with worsening tic severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Schaefer
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Christopher A Chow
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Elan D Louis
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Center for Neuroepidemiology and Clinical Neurological Research, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Daphne Robakis
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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A personal 35 year perspective on Gilles de la Tourette syndrome: prevalence, phenomenology, comorbidities, and coexistent psychopathologies. Lancet Psychiatry 2015; 2:68-87. [PMID: 26359614 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(14)00132-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This Series is a personal narrative of my experience with patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome and covers its definition and history since the first description in 1825. Controversy entered the prevalence debate early. Although originally considered very rare, in the 1980s, Tourette's syndrome was reported to be common. However, Tourette's syndrome has been shown to occur at a prevalence of about 0·85% to 1%. Tourette's syndrome is more common in the male population, more prominent during childhood, and usually improves, but does not disappear with age. Tourette's syndrome is considered less common in people of sub-Saharan black African, African-American, and American Hispanic ethnic origin. The phenomenology is similar worldwide, indicating a biological basis. The hallmark characteristics are multiple motor and one or more vocal/phonic tics. Other associated features include premonitory urges, a waxing and waning course, and to a much lesser degree, coprolalia. Comorbid disorders are common and are suggested to include obsessive-compulsive disorder and behaviours, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autistic spectrum disorder. Coexistent psychopathologies are suggested to include depression and conduct and personality disorders. Importantly, I argue that Tourette's syndrome is not a unitary condition. Finally, I offer suggestions for future research.
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Tics and Tourette Syndrome. Mov Disord 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-405195-9.00044-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Eapen V, Robertson MM. Are there distinct subtypes in Tourette syndrome? Pure-Tourette syndrome versus Tourette syndrome-plus, and simple versus complex tics. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2015; 11:1431-6. [PMID: 26089672 PMCID: PMC4468986 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s72284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study addressed several questions relating to the core features of Tourette syndrome (TS) including in particular coprolalia (involuntary utterance of obscene words) and copropraxia (involuntary and inappropriate rude gesturing). A cohort of 400 TS patients was investigated. We observed that coprolalia occurred in 39% of the full cohort of 400 patients and copropraxia occurred in 20% of the cohort. Those with coprolalia had significantly higher Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) and Diagnostic Confidence Index (DCI) total scores and a significantly higher proportion also experienced copropraxia and echolalia. A subgroup of 222 TS patients with full comorbidity data available were also compared based on whether they had pure-TS (motor and vocal tics only) or associated comorbidities and co-existent psychopathologies (TS-plus). Pure-TS and TS-plus groups were compared across a number of characteristics including TS severity, associated clinical features, and family history. In this subgroup, 13.5% had pure-TS, while the remainder had comorbidities and psychopathologies consistent with TS-plus. Thirty-nine percent of the TS-plus group displayed coprolalia, compared to (0%) of the pure-TS group and the difference in proportions was statistically significant. The only other significant difference found between the two groups was that pure-TS was associated with no family history of obsessive compulsive disorder which is an interesting finding that may suggest that additional genes or environmental factors may be at play when TS is associated with comorbidities. Finally, differences between individuals with simple versus complex vocal/motor tics were evaluated. Results indicated that individuals with complex motor/vocal tics were significantly more likely to report premonitory urges/sensations than individuals with simple tics and TS. The implications of these findings for the assessment and understanding of TS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia ; Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Ingham Institute, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Mary M Robertson
- Neuropsychiatry, University College London, UK ; St Georges Hospital and Medical School, London, UK
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Robertson MM, Eapen V. Tourette's: syndrome, disorder or spectrum? Classificatory challenges and an appraisal of the DSM criteria. Asian J Psychiatr 2014; 11:106-13. [PMID: 25453712 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The fifth version of the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5) was released in May 2013 after 14 years of development and almost two decades after the last edition DSM-IV was published in 1994. We review the DSM journey with regards to Tourette Syndrome from the original publication of DSM 1 in 1952 till date. In terms of changes in DSM 5, the major shift has come in the placement of Tourette Syndrome under the 'Neurodevelopmental Disorders' alongside other disorders with a developmental origin. This review provides an overview of the changes in DSM-5 highlighting key points for clinical practice and research along with a snap shot of the current use of DSM as a classificatory system in different parts of the world and suggestions for improving the subtyping and the diagnostic confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary May Robertson
- University College London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology, Room 148, Atkinson Morley Wing, St. Georges Hospital & Medical School, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, United Kingdom.
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry & Ingham Institute, University of New South Wales; Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South West Sydney (AUCS), ICAMHS, Mental Health Centre, L1, Liverpool Hospital, Elizabeth Street, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia.
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Erro R, Martino D, Ganos C, Damasio J, Batla A, Bhatia KP. Adult-Onset Primary Dystonic Tics: A Different Entity? Mov Disord Clin Pract 2014; 1:62-66. [PMID: 30363833 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.12005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on their phenomenology, tics can be classified as clonic, dystonic, and tonic. Although tic syndromes are considered to be childhood disorders, there are reports on (clonic) tics developing late in life. Literature on dystonic tics is sparse, and it is unclear whether adult-onset dystonic tics are part of the same disorder spectrum that includes Tourette's syndrome or represent a discrete entity. We describe here 11 patients with adult-onset primary dystonic tics. Ten patients (90.1%) were males. Mean age at onset was 42.2 ± 14.9 years. More than 60% had both motor clonic and dystonic tics. Dystonic tics most frequently involved the cranial-cervical region and the shoulders and, less frequently, the limbs. Psychiatric comorbidities were present in 5 patients. Family history for any movement disorder or for psychiatric disorders was present in 2 cases. One patient showed a sensory geste, which allowed him to partially control his tics, whereas another developed overt dystonia 3 years after his first assessment. The hyperkinesias exhibited by these patients were likely consistent with tics. However, other clinical features would allow us to argue that adult-onset dystonic tics may represent a discrete entity, which is intermediate between tics and dystonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Erro
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom.,Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche e del Movimento Università di Verona, Policlinico Borgo Roma Verona Italy
| | - Davide Martino
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital Woolwich, Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust London United Kingdom.,King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London United Kingdom.,Center for Neuroscience and Trauma Queen Mary University of London London United Kingdom
| | - Christos Ganos
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom.,Neurology University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) Hamburg Germany.,Department of Pediatric and Adult Movement Disorders and Neuropsychiatry Institute of Neurogenetics University of Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Joana Damasio
- Neurology Department Hospital de Santo Antonio Centro Hospitalar do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Amit Batla
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom
| | - Kailash P Bhatia
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom
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Apaydin H, Benbir G, Lees A. A stimulus-sensitive tic disorder characterized by echophenomena and coprolalia. Mov Disord 2011; 27:159-60. [PMID: 21915912 DOI: 10.1002/mds.23952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2011] [Revised: 08/07/2011] [Accepted: 08/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Prevalence of tics in schoolchildren in central Spain: a population-based study. Pediatr Neurol 2011; 45:100-8. [PMID: 21763950 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2011.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Tic disorders constitute a neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood. This study sought to determine the prevalence of tic disorders in a school-based sample. A randomized sample of 1158 schoolchildren, based on clusters (classrooms) in the province of Burgos (Spain), was identified on a stratified sampling frame combining types of educational center and setting (mainstream schools and special education), using a two-phase approach (screening and diagnosis ascertainment by a neurologist). Tics with/without impairment criterion were diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria. In mainstream schools, tics were observed in 125/741 students (16.86%; 95% confidence interval, 14.10-19.63), and were more frequent in boys (87/448, 19.42%; 95% confidence interval, 15.64-23.19) compared with girls (38/293, 12.96%; 95% confidence interval, 8.95-16.98; P = 0.03). In special education centers, tics disorders were observed in 11/54 of children (20.37%; 95% confidence interval, 8.70-32.03). Overall, tics with impairment criteria were less frequent than tics without impairment criteria (4.65% vs 11.85%, P < 0.0001). The most frequent diagnoses involved chronic motor tics (6.07%) and Tourette syndrome (5.26%). Tic disorders are common in childhood, and the use or nonuse of impairment criteria exerts a significant impact on tic prevalence estimates.
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Abstract
Tic disorders, including Tourette syndrome, are an intriguing group of paroxysmal movement abnormalities that begin in childhood, have a fluctuating course, are capable of causing psychosocial and physical problems, and often improve by early adulthood. These disorders are frequently associated with a variety of comorbid problems whose negative effects may exceed those of tics. Therapy is strictly symptomatic and usually includes educational, behavioral, and a variety of pharmacological therapies. Although there is strong evidence supporting an inherited basis, the precise genetic abnormality remains unknown. A proposed poststreptococcal autoimmune etiology remains controversial. Pathophysiologically, tics appear to arise from an alteration within cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuits, but the definitive site is unknown. Evidence supports an abnormality of synaptic neurotransmission, likely involving the dopaminergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey S Singer
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore 21287, USA.
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15
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Taylor S. Early versus late onset obsessive-compulsive disorder: evidence for distinct subtypes. Clin Psychol Rev 2011; 31:1083-100. [PMID: 21820387 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2011.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The distinction between early versus late onset is important for understanding many different kinds of disorders. In an effort to identify etiologically homogeneous subtypes of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), numerous studies have investigated whether early onset OCD (EO) can be reliably distinguished from a comparatively later onset form of the disorder (LO). The present article presents a systematic review and evaluation of this subtyping scheme, including meta-analyses and re-analyses of raw data. Regarding the latter, latent class analyses of nine datasets, including clinical and community samples, consistently indicated that age-of-onset is not a unimodal phenomena. Evidence suggests that there are two distinguishable groups; EO (mean onset 11 years) and LO (mean onset 23 years). Approximately three-quarters of cases of OCD (76%) were classified as EO. Meta-analyses indicated that EO, compared to LO, is (a) more likely to occur in males, (b) associated with greater OCD global severity and higher prevalence of most types of OC symptoms, (c) more likely to be comorbid with tics and possibly with other putative obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, and (d) associated with a greater prevalence of OCD in first-degree relatives. EO and LO were also distinguishable on other psychosocial and biological variables. Overall, results support the view that EO and LO are distinct subtypes of OCD. Comparisons with other, potentially overlapping OCD subtyping schemes are discussed, implications for DSM-V are considered, and important directions for future investigation are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, 2255 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 2A1.
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Robertson MM. Gilles de la Tourette syndrome: the complexities of phenotype and treatment. Br J Hosp Med (Lond) 2011; 72:100-7. [DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2011.72.2.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Robertson
- Professor Mary M Robertson is Emeritus Professor of Neuropsychiatry, University College London and Visiting Professor and Honorary Consultant, Department of Neurology, St Georges Hospital and Medical School, London SW17 0QT
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Abstract
Tourette's syndrome (TS) is defined as motor and phonic tics starting before age 18 years, and therefore most studies have focused on childhood TS, whereas the disorder in adults has not been well characterized. We reviewed medical records of all new TS patients referred to our Movement Disorders Clinic over the past 5 years, 19 years or older on initial evaluation and compared them with 100 TS patients 18 years or younger. The mean age at initial visit of 43 adult TS patients was 58.8 ± 6.7 years, whereas the mean age at initial visit of children with TS was 12.9 ± 2.0 years. Of the adult TS patients, 35 (81.4%) had a history of tics with onset before the age of 18 years (mean age at onset: 8.5 ± 3.4 years), with 8 (18.6%) reporting first occurrence of tics after the age of 18 years (mean age at onset: 37.8 ± 13.2 years). Only two (4.7%) patients reported tic onset after the age of 50 years. Adult patients with TS had significantly more facial and truncal tics, and a greater prevalence of substance abuse and mood disorders, but fewer phonic tics, and lower rates of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and oppositional behavior than children with TS. Adult TS largely represents reemergence or exacerbation of childhood-onset TS. During the course of TS, phonic and complex motor tics, self-injurious behaviors, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder tend to improve, but facial, neck, and trunk tics dominate the adult TS phenotype. In addition, adults with TS are more likely to exhibit substance abuse and mood disorders compared with children with TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Jankovic
- Parkinson Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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Damásio J, Edwards MJ, Alonso-Canovas A, Schwingenschuh P, Kägi G, Bhatia KP. The clinical syndrome of primary tic disorder associated with dystonia: A large clinical series and a review of the literature. Mov Disord 2011; 26:679-84. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.23484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 09/08/2010] [Accepted: 09/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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van der Salm SMA, Koelman JHTM, Henneke S, van Rootselaar AF, Tijssen MAJ. Axial jerks: a clinical spectrum ranging from propriospinal to psychogenic myoclonus. J Neurol 2010; 257:1349-55. [PMID: 20352254 PMCID: PMC2910307 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-010-5531-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2009] [Revised: 02/27/2010] [Accepted: 03/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Propriospinal myoclonus (PSM) is a rare disorder with repetitive flexor, arrhythmic jerks of the trunk, hips and knees. Its generation is presumed to relay in the spinal cord. We report a case series of 35 consecutive patients with jerks of the trunk referred as possible PSM to a tertiary referral center for movement disorders. We review classical PSM features as well as psychogenic and tic characteristics. In our case series, secondary PSM was diagnosed in one patient only. 34 patients showed features suggestive of a psychogenic origin of axial jerks. Diagnosis of psychogenic axial jerks was based on clinical clues without additional investigations (n = 8), inconsistent findings at polymyography (n = 15), regular eye blinking preceding jerks (n = 2), or the presence of a Bereitschaftspotential (BP) (n = 9). In addition, several tic characteristics were noted. Almost all patients referred with possible PSM in our tertiary referral clinic had characteristics suggesting a psychogenic origin even in the presence of a classic polymyography pattern or in the absence of a BP. Clinical overlap with adult-onset tics seems to exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M A van der Salm
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Academic Medical Center, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
A tic is a stereotyped repetitive involuntary movement or sound, frequently preceded by premonitory sensations or urges. Most tic disorders are genetic or idiopathic in nature, possibly due to a developmental failure of inhibitory function within frontal-subcortical circuits modulating volitional movements. Currently available oral medications can reduce the severity of tics, but rarely eliminate them. Botulinum toxin injections can be effective if there are a few particularly disabling motor tics. Deep brain stimulation has been reported to be an effective treatment for the most severe cases, but remains unproven. A comprehensive evaluation accounting for secondary causes, psychosocial factors, and comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions is essential to successful treatment of tic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Shprecher
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14620, USA
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21
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Robertson MM. The prevalence and epidemiology of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. Part 2: tentative explanations for differing prevalence figures in GTS, including the possible effects of psychopathology, aetiology, cultural differences, and differing phenotypes. J Psychosom Res 2008; 65:473-86. [PMID: 18940378 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2008.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2007] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 03/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
As has been demonstrated, Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome (GTS) occurs in at least 1% of the population worldwide. However, earlier studies suggested a lower prevalence. In addition, the prevalence figures for different studies very between 0.4% and 3.8%. Moreover, the prevalence appears to vary in some parts of the world and races, with a lower rate in Afro-Americans and sub-Saharan black Africans. In this the second part of the review, possible reasons for the differences in prevalence and epidemiology are discussed. Tentative explanations for differing prevalence figures in GTS include problems with the diagnosis of GTS, the multidimensional nature of tics, as well as other tic factors including the waxing and waning of symptoms and the suppressibility of symptoms. Other factors inherent to GTS include the fact that there is no diagnostic test and indeed no definitive diagnosis other than clinical, the fact that psychosocial stresses can lead to increased tic severity, and that comorbid disorders may mask tics. The varying methods of study employed can also effect prevalence. There may be some regional differences in GTS as well, which may be due to a lack of awareness of GTS, or it may be a true reflection of low prevalence as in some populations GTS does appear rare. With regard to the sub-Saharan Africa data and possibly the African American data, matters are much more complex than meets the eye. The following reasons are all possible for the apparent rarity in these populations and include (i) other medical priorities and less propensity to seek health care, (ii) lack of awareness of GTS, (iii) chance, (iv) ethnic and epigenetic differences and reasons, (v) genetic and allelic differences in different races, and (vi) an admixture of races. The aetiology of GTS is also complex, with influences from complex genetic mechanisms, pre- and perinatal difficulties and, in a subgroup, some infections, possibly by epigenetic mechanisms. These may well affect phenotype and, thus, prevalence. There have even been suggestions that people with GTS are increasing. Recent data suggests that GTS is not a unitary condition and that there may well be different types of GTS. The prevalence of GTS in these individual subtypes is unknown. It is suggested that a new nomenclature be adopted for GTS in future, pending further genetic and phenomenological studies. To what extent the aetiology affects the phenotype and, thus, the prevalence is still unclear.
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Robertson MM. The prevalence and epidemiology of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome. Part 1: the epidemiological and prevalence studies. J Psychosom Res 2008; 65:461-72. [PMID: 18940377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2008.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2007] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 03/11/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence and epidemiology of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) are more complex than was once thought. Until fairly recently, GTS was thought to be a rare and, according to some, a psychogenically mediated disorder. Prevalence depends, at least in part, on the definition of GTS, the type of ascertainment, and epidemiological methods used. However, in dedicated specialist GTS clinics, the majority of patients were noted to have positive family histories of tics or GTS, and large, extended, multiply-affected GTS pedigrees indicated that many family members had undiagnosed tics or GTS: it was therefore realized that GTS was far from uncommon. Seven early epidemiological studies reported that GTS was uncommon or rare for a variety of reasons. More recently, however, two pilot studies and 12 large definitive studies in mainstream school and school-age youngsters in the community, using similar multistage methods, have documented remarkably consistent findings, demonstrating prevalence figures for GTS of between 0.4% and 3.8% for youngsters between the ages of 5 and 18 years. Of the 420,312 young people studied internationally, 3,989 (0.949%) were diagnosed as having GTS. It is therefore suggested that a figure of 1% would be appropriate for the overall international GTS prevalence figure. There were however, "outliers" to the figure. For instance, GTS does seem to be substantially rarer in African-American people and has been reported only very rarely in sub-Saharan black African people. GTS is found in all other cultures, although to possibly differing degrees. In all cultures where GTS has been reported, the phenomenology is similar, highlighting the biological underpinnings of the disorder.
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Schneider SA, Robertson MM, Rizzo R, Turk J, Bhatia KP, Orth M. Fragile X syndrome associated with tic disorders. Mov Disord 2008; 23:1108-12. [PMID: 18383111 DOI: 10.1002/mds.21995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Movement disorders other than late onset tremor-ataxia in association with fragile X syndrome, the most common identifiable cause of inherited mental retardation, seem to be rare. Here we describe five male patients from three unrelated families with fragile X syndrome that presented with motor and phonic tics. Clinically, 4 patients fulfilled diagnostic criteria for Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) while 1 patient would have been diagnosed with an adult onset tic disorder. However, in all patients onset of tics was considerably later than in typical GTS. Three patients had atypical tics and two patients reported waxing and waning of tic intensity over time. Four of the 5 patients showed clinical signs typical of fragile X syndrome, in particular dysmorphic features, learning difficulties and speech and language problems that required special treatment. All patients had co-morbidities common to both GTS and fragile X syndrome. We suggest considering fragile X syndrome in GTS complicated by co-morbidity with late onset of atypical tics, in particular when learning disability and dysmorphic features are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne A Schneider
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome of chronic multiple motor and vocal tics is now acknowledged to be far more common than once thought, affecting up to 1% of schoolchildren with a wide range of severity. At the milder end of the spectrum the associated psychopathologies can in themselves impair social and educational functioning, in particular obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Many patients with this condition are not being adequately served by health and education services in the UK. The epidemiology, clinical features, aetiological factors, and management of the syndrome are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Stern
- Tourette Syndrome (UK) Association, Atkinson Morley's Wing, St George's Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK.
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Edwards MJ, Dale RC, Church AJ, Trikouli E, Quinn NP, Lees AJ, Giovannoni G, Bhatia KP. Adult-onset tic disorder, motor stereotypies, and behavioural disturbance associated with antibasal ganglia antibodies. Mov Disord 2005; 19:1190-6. [PMID: 15390017 DOI: 10.1002/mds.20126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The onset of tics in adulthood is rare and, unlike the childhood variety, there is commonly a secondary environmental cause. We present four cases (1 man, 3 women) with an adult onset tic disorder (mean age of onset, 36 years; range, 27-42 years) associated with the presence of serum antibasal ganglia antibodies (ABGA). One patient had motor tics and unusual motor stereotypies, 2 had multiple motor and vocal tics, and the remaining patient had motor tics only. Concomitant psychiatric disturbance was noted in 3 cases. In 2 cases, there was a close temporal relationship between upper respiratory tract infection and the subsequent onset of tics. Imaging was possible in three cases and was normal in two but revealed a lesion involving the right caudate and lentiform nuclei in the other. We suggest that there might be a causal relationship between ABGA and the clinical syndrome in these cases and that ABGA should be considered as a possible etiology for adult-onset tics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Edwards
- Sobell Department of Movement Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to describe the natural course of tic disorders over a long period of time in Japanese adults patients with Tourette's syndrome (TS) in terms of symptomatology. METHODS An extensive literature on TS cases was reviewed selectively and 31 TS patients (mean age: 31.4 years; sex: 28 males and 3 females) at our outpatient clinic were examined. The mean follow-up period of the patients was 7.6 years (SD: 8.1; 0 to 26). All the data available for this study, including medical charts, were examined systematically by two experienced child psychiatrists. RESULTS The adult patients with tic disorders could be classified into the four groups: group A - tics only, group B - tics + comorbidities, group C - comorbidities only and group D - sub-clinical (remission) cases. Our 31 subjects consisted of 10 patients (32.3%) for group A, 14 (45.2%) for group B, 7 (22.6%) for group C, and 0 for group D. CONCLUSIONS Further investigation into the natural course and clinical characteristics of adult TS needs to be done in order to acquire a better understanding of the broad spectrum of TS and to make improvements to the treatment for this illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masataka Ohta
- Research Institute for Education of Exceptional Children, Tokyo Gakugei University, Tokyo, Japan.
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