subject: Tourette Syndrome Diagnosis [print this page] Tourette Syndrome Diagnosis
Tourette's syndrome is a brain disorder that involves multiple tics, both physical and verbal. For a Tourette syndrome diagnosis to occur, the individual must exhibit both multiple motor tics and one or more vocal tics for a period of at least one year. The patient cannot have had more than three consecutive months without experiencing tics.
For a diagnosis to occur, the onset of tics must begin before the age of 18. Another requirement is that the symptoms cannot be attributed to the physiological effects of a substance or other medical condition. Other medical conditions that involve tics or disorders such as OCD, ADHD, or autism must also be ruled out before a diagnosis can occur.
Tourette syndrome can be difficult to diagnose. Many mild cases are never diagnosed, as they may be thought to be just part of a child's normal developmental phase or are not severe enough for medical attention. Also, some of the tics involved with Tourette's such as eye blinking may be associated with other disorders.
There are no specific medical or screening tests used for a Tourette syndrome diagnosis. However, physical and neurological examinations may be conducted for a diagnosis. Family history is a factor in diagnosis. Children of parents with Tourette's are much more likely to have the disorder. In fact, some parents become aware that they too had tics as a child after bringing their child in to a physician for an evaluation.
Another factor complicating factor in a Tourette syndrome diagnosis is that there can be confusion between seizures and tics. When this is the case, the physician can request an MRI, EEG, or CT to rule out brain abnormalities. Samples from the body may also be taken to rule out hypothyroidism, which can be a cause of tics. A urine test may also be conducted rule out the use of drugs such as stimulants.
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