Description
Tic disorders include a variety of disorders, such as Tourette's syndrome, that result in sudden, rapid, non-rhythmic movements or speech. Tic disorders are more common in males than females. They are also more common in children. The exact cause of tics is unknown at this time.
Symptoms
Symptoms include sudden, rapid, non-rhythmic movements (motor tics) or spoken words (vocal tics).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. In most cases, the diagnosis can be made based on this alone. In some cases, neuropsychological testing may be ordered.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. In most cases, the diagnosis can be made based on this alone. In some cases, neuropsychological testing may be ordered.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Neurology
Treatment
Treatment is varied and, in many cases, no specific therapy is required. Several classes of drugs have been used with some success. They include dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (haloperidol, fluphenazine, olanzapine) and dopamine agonists (levodopa). Other cases are treated with behavioral therapy called habit reversal therapy.