Present situation on the causes and treatments of tourette syndrome

Abstract

Tourette Syndrome (TS), a neurological disorder classified as the most complex form of tic disorder in the DSM-5, has remained a prominent concern for the adolescent population. Owing to its complexity and the unknowability of its physiology, it currently has no cure. Through the review of two family studies, two twin studies, one Genome-Wide Association Study, and two other reviews, firm evidence for additive genetic influences and non-shared environmental influences was found, suggesting TSs high heritability. Specific genetic factor (SNP-rs2504235), environmental (pre-and peri-natal) factors, and the interaction between these factors were evident from the studies as well. Through the analysis of these findings, one coping strategy was emphasized over the two existing classes, pharmacological and non-pharmacological, of typical treatments: preventative approaches under the assistance of advanced technology like genetic testing. The inability of the now available treatments to cure TS and their respective side effects cause them to be less desirable than prevention as early actions were shown to be effective in hindering the disorders deterioration and persistence.