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Is TS inherited?
Evidence from genetic studies suggests that TS is inherited in a
dominant mode and the gene(s) involved can cause a variable range of
symptoms in different family members. A person with TS has about a 50-50
chance of passing on the gene(s) to one of his or her offspring.
However, that genetic predisposition may not necessarily result in
full-blown TS; instead, it may express itself as a milder tic disorder
or as obsessive compulsive behaviors or possibly attention deficit
disorder with few or no tics at all. It is also possible that the
gene-carrying offspring will not develop any TS symptoms. A higher than
normal incidence of milder tic disorders and obsessive compulsive
behaviors has been found in families of individuals with TS.
Gender also plays an important role in TS gene expression. If the
gene-carrying offspring of a TS patient is male, then the risk of
developing symptoms is 3 to 4 times higher. However, most people who
inherit the gene(s) will not develop symptoms severe enough to warrant
medical attention. In some cases of TS, inheritance cannot be
determined. These cases are called sporadic and their cause is unknown.
What is the prognosis?
There is no cure for TS; however, the condition in many individuals
improves as they mature. Individuals with TS can expect to live a normal
life span. Although the disorder is generally lifelong and chronic, it
is not a degenerative condition. TS does not impair intelligence. Tics
tend to decrease with age, enabling some patients to discontinue using
medication. In a few cases, complete remission occurs after adolescence.
Although tic symptoms tend to decrease with age, it is possible that
neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression, panic attacks, mood
swings, and antisocial behaviors may increase.
What is the best educational setting for children with
TS?
Although students with TS often function well in the regular classroom, it is
estimated that many may have some kind of learning disability. When attention
deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and frequent tics greatly
interfere with academic performance or social adjustment, students should be
placed in an educational setting that meets their individual needs. These
students may require tutoring, smaller or special classes, and in some cases
special schools.
All students with TS need a tolerant and compassionate setting that
both encourages them to work to their full potential and is flexible
enough to accommodate their special needs. This setting may include a
private study area, exams outside the regular classroom, or even oral
exams when the child's symptoms interfere with his or her ability to
write. Untimed testing reduces stress for students with TS.
What research is being done?
Within the Federal Government, the leading supporter of research on TS and
other neurological disorders is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders
and Stroke (NINDS). The NINDS, a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH),
is responsible for supporting and conducting research on the brain and central
nervous system.
NINDS sponsors research on TS both in its laboratories at the NIH and through
grants to major medical institutions across the country. The National Institute
of Mental Health,the National Center for Research Resources, the National
Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute on Drug
Abuse, and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
also support research of relevance to TS.
Recent research has led to several notable advances in the understanding of
TS. Already scientists have learned that TS is inherited from a dominant gene(s) that causes different symptoms from
patient to patient, and that the disorder is more common than was
previously thought.
Genetic studies. Currently, investigators are conducting genetic linkage
studies in large multigenerational families affected with TS in an effort to
find the chromosomal location of the TS gene(s). Finding a genetic marker (a
biochemical abnormality that all TS patients might share) for TS would be a
major step toward understanding the genetic risk factors for TS. Once the marker
is found, research efforts would then focus on locating the TS gene(s).
Understanding the genetics of TS will directly benefit patients who are
concerned about recurrence in their families and will ultimately help to clarify
the development of the disorder. Localization of the TS gene will strengthen
clinical diagnosis, improve genetic counseling, lead to the clarification of
pathophysiology, and provide clues for more effective therapies.
Neurotransmitter studies. Investigators continue to study certain
neurotransmitters to increase our understanding of the syndrome, explore the
role they play in the disease process, and provide more effective therapies.
Environmental studies. Other research projects currently under way
include analyzing young unaffected children at high risk for TS in order
to identify environmental factors such as life stresses or exposure to
certain medications that may influence the expression of the disorder.
Scientists are also conducting neuropsychological tests and
neuroimaging studies of brain activity and structure to determine the
extent to which specific environmental exposures may affect the
emergence of tics and/or obsessive compulsive symptoms.
Tourette's, Other Tic Disorders Far More Common Than Once Thought One out
of four students in special-education classes has a tic-related disorder like
Tourette syndrome, and the rate of Tourette’s among students in the general
population is 50 to 75 times higher than has been traditionally thought by
doctors, according to a study published in the Oct. 23 issue of the journal
Neurology.
Where can I go for more information?
For more information about TS or other neurological disorders, or
about the NINDS and its research programs, contact the NINDS
Office of
Scientific and Health Reports.
The Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc., is a voluntary, nonprofit
organization whose members include people with TS, their families and
friends, and health care professionals. The Association funds research,
provides services to patients and their families, and offers a variety
of publications, including a newsletter, brochures, and fact sheets. For
further information, contact:
Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.
42-40 Bell Boulevard
Bayside, New York 11361-2861
(718) 224-2999
(800) 237-0717
Books available from Amazon.com:
A Mind of Its Own : Tourette's Syndrome : A Story and a Guide
Ryan : A Mother's Story of Her Hyperactive/Tourette Syndrome Child
Prepared by
Office of Scientific and Health Reports
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NIH Publication No. 95-2163
Original Publication Date: February 1995
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