Overview of Tourette's Syndrome

Tourette's syndrome (TS) is an inherited neurobehavioral disorder characterized by sudden, involuntary, repetitive muscle movements (motor tics) and vocalizations (vocal tics). The disorder is also known as Gilles de la Tourette syndrome for the neurologist who first described the syndrome in 1885.

The nature and complexity of the tics are usually variable over time with natural waxing and waning in frequency and severity. Many individuals with TS also develop associated behavioral problems, such as obsessions and compulsions, inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptom onset typically occurs during childhood or early adolescence.

	Symptoms/Findings