Tourette syndrome and tics

Abstract 

Tic disorders are not uncommon in children. The classification of the disorders includes transient tic disorders, chronic motor or vocal tic disorders and Tourette syndrome. Tourette syndrome consists of the presence of motor and vocal tics and occurs in 0.5–1.85% of school children. The tics range from blinking and shoulder shrugging to more complex tics such as jumping and the use of inappropriate words. The condition may be associated with other disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. A detailed history is essential in making the diagnosis, and an assessment of the child's functioning and self-esteem is also important in relation to management. A full explanation of the condition to the child and family may be all that is required in mild forms of the disorder. Various forms of management include psychological techniques and medication as well as liaison with the school.

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