Tourette Syndrome: What Makes People Tic

Tourette's syndrome is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and verbal tics. While copralalia is a well-known symptom, it is not the most common. Diagnosis requires multiple tics over a year. The disorder affects 1 in 100 to 1,000 people, with a higher prevalence in males. Onset typically occurs around age six, peaking at age ten. Many children outgrow it, but adults can also be affected. Comorbidities like ADHD and OCD are common. Genetic factors play a role, but not all cases are inherited. Research suggests brain dysfunction, particularly in the basal ganglia and frontal lobe, may contribute to tics. Studies using fMRI have identified abnormal brain activity patterns, but the exact cause remains unclear.

What is coprolalia and how is it related to Tourette's syndrome?

Describe the diagnostic criteria for Tourette's syndrome.

What are the common comorbidities associated with Tourette's syndrome?

How does Tourette's syndrome affect social relationships according to studies?

What role do genetics play in Tourette's syndrome?

Explain the brain regions implicated in Tourette's syndrome.

What are some of the hypotheses regarding the cause of Tourette's syndrome?