Background and purpose: Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (TS) is characterized by the presence of multiple motor and vocal tics, as well as other neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of particular clinical symptoms in patients diagnosed with TS.
Material and methods: A hundred twenty-six individuals were studied. A brief questionnaire including data from the medical history and neurological examination was used.
Results: TS was much more frequent in males (80%; 101/126) than in females. The mean age at onset was 7.6 (2-17) years. The onset of the disease was usually slow. Abrupt onset of the disease, usually after infection, was noted in 11% (12/114) of patients. The mean delay in diagnosis was 3.9 years. In most patients tics were moderate (64%; 81/126). Mild and severe intensity of tics were reported in 15% (19/126) and 21% (26/126) of patients, respectively. 77% (97/126) of individuals with TS had comorbidities. The mean comorbidity score was 2.79 per patient. Anger control problems, sleep difficulties, self-injurious behaviour and coprolalia were strongly associated with comorbidity. The most common reported comorbidity was attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (59%; 74/126). Family history was positive in 46% (57/125) of patients, most often in TS patients with onset between ages 2 and 4 years (70%; 14/20). Haloperidol was the most commonly used medication in our cohort (60%; 57/95). 22% (27/122) of patients did not receive any symptomatic treatment.
Conclusions: The appropriate diagnosis was delayed for about four years after the onset of the disease. Comorbidity and behavioural problems were frequent features of TS. Genetic factors can play an important role in the aetiology of TS.