Tourette syndrome is a neuropsychiatric disorder that causes patients to make sudden, uncontrollable movements or sounds known as tics. While it is primarily treated by psychiatry specialists, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used in the United States and Europe for many years to stop tics in refractory cases.

What is Tourette Syndrome (Tic Disorder)?

Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder that begins in childhood or adolescence and is characterized by involuntary movements and sounds called tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive, non-rhythmic movements or sounds — such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, or repeating words.

Tourette syndrome was first described in 1895 by French physician Gerard Gilles de La Tourette. It is also commonly known as the inability to control oneself, sudden shouting, and tic disease. It causes repetitive, sudden, and involuntary movements and sounds (tics) that cannot be controlled. Tourette syndrome is a genetic condition. Evidence suggests that the genetic change causing the disease is passed from parent to child or occurs in the womb.

Causes and Symptoms of Tourette Syndrome

The most prominent symptom of Tourette syndrome is tics. Tics are divided into two categories: motor tics and vocal tics.

Motor Tics in Tourette Syndrome

• Eye blinking
• Nose pulling
• Facial grimacing
• Head nodding
• Shoulder shrugging
• Arm or leg movements
• Jumping
• Touching

Vocal Tics in Tourette Syndrome

• Throat clearing
• Coughing
• Barking
• Grunting
• Word repetition
• Swearing (coprolalia)

The severity and frequency of tics vary from person to person. In some individuals tics are mild and infrequent, while in others they can be severe and frequent. Tics generally increase during periods of stress, excitement, or fatigue.

What Causes Tourette Syndrome?

While the exact cause of Tourette syndrome is not known, it is thought that disruptions in communication between certain areas of the brain play a role. Genetic and environmental factors are also thought to influence the development of Tourette syndrome. When similar symptoms are seen in family members, the role of genetics in disease development and symptom severity is considered significant. Irregular levels of dopamine, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters in the brain are associated with tic disorder symptoms. Abnormal activity or communication in certain brain regions may contribute to tic formation. Some environmental factors are thought to play a triggering role, such as stress, infection, trauma, or toxin exposure.

How is Tourette Syndrome Diagnosed?

The first step is a physical examination by the doctor. The doctor then asks the patient questions to evaluate symptoms — when tics began, how often they occur, and how long they have been present. To diagnose Tourette syndrome, there must be multiple motor tics (such as eye blinking, shoulder shrugging) and vocal tics, persisting for at least 1 year. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and electroencephalogram (EEG) are performed to determine whether another condition may be causing the tics.

Treatment of Tourette Syndrome

Treatment of Tourette syndrome depends on the severity of tics and their impact on the person's quality of life. People with mild tics may not need treatment. However, if tics are severe or affect quality of life, treatment options include:

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

DBS is a surgical treatment method used for severe and treatment-refractory tics in Tourette syndrome. In this method, electrodes are placed in specific areas of the brain and electrical stimulation is delivered through these electrodes. DBS can be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of tics.

Tourette Syndrome and Quality of Life

Tourette syndrome can affect a person's quality of life. Tics can negatively impact social, academic, and professional life. Additionally, people with Tourette syndrome may also experience anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

It is important for people with Tourette syndrome to live in a supportive environment. Family, friends, and teachers should show understanding and provide support to those with Tourette syndrome. It is also important for people with Tourette syndrome to seek help from a specialist.

Tourette syndrome is a treatable condition. With appropriate treatment and support, people with Tourette syndrome can live happy and successful lives.

How Should Those Around Someone with Tourette Syndrome Behave?

Tourette syndrome can negatively affect a person's quality of life, as well as their social, academic, and professional life. People with Tourette syndrome may also experience anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is important for people with Tourette syndrome to live in a supportive environment. Family, friends, and teachers should show understanding and provide support.

Sports, exercise, writing, painting, and other creative activities and hobbies are recommended. Tourette syndrome is a treatable condition. With appropriate treatment and support, people with Tourette syndrome can live happy and successful lives.

Tourette Syndrome Patient Stories

Tourette Syndrome — Deep Brain Stimulation Treatment

Tourette Syndrome (Tic Disorder) — Büşra Before & After DBS

You are watching footage of our patient, who has had motor and vocal tics for many years, before and after her deep brain stimulation surgery. Tourette syndrome (tic disorder) is a neuropsychiatric disorder that causes patients to make sudden, uncontrollable movements or sounds. It is treated by psychiatry specialists. In drug-resistant cases, deep brain stimulation surgery is highly successful in controlling tics.

Tourette Syndrome (Tic Disorder) — Büşra Before & After DBS