A Possible Link Between Tic Disorders Associated with Beta Thalassemia Minor and Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Background: Genetic linkages with psychiatric disorders have been documented. In our clinical practice, we noticed a high propensity for blood disorders in female patients with certain neuropsychiatric phenomenon, specifically Tourette Syndrome (TS) or Trichotillomania (TTM). With this clinical observation, we hoped to better understand a possible genetic correlation, namely the role of chromosome 11 which encodes for both the B globulin gene and human dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene. Method: This is a retrospective case series of six children found to have a blood disorder and neuropsychiatric diagnosis in our clinic. We used family interview, lab results, and the patient’s medical chart for data collection Results: Our case series reveals six children with a repetitive neuropsychiatric disorder and a blood disorder. Conclusions: Currently, there are no definitive susceptibility genes that have been identified to date for TS or TTM. We postulate that blood disorders found on chromosome 11 may play a role as a susceptibility factor, particularly in females, for repetitive neuropsychiatric disorders.