[Current theories on the etiology and treatment of Gilles de la Tourette's disease]

Abstract

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is a condition marked by: (1) onset usually in childhood and adolescence, i.e. between 2 and 15 years of life; (2) violent facial tics and echolalia; (3) increased excitability and apathy; (4) progressive increase in symptoms intensity; (5) chronic course. This syndrome is threefold more frequent in men than in women. None hypothesis concerning its etiopathogenesis (genetic, organic, organic-functional, psychomotor, and mixed) does explain its origin. Many cases respond with some degree of relief to neuroleptics, carbamazepine, clonidine, and glucocorticosteroids. Neurosurgery and psychotherapy are also of value. Haloperidol is commonly considered the most effective in this syndrome.