Chronic motor tic disorder

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Central nervous system

Chronic motor tic disorder

Alternative Names:

Chronic vocal tic disorder; tic - chronic motor tic disorder
Treatment:

Treatment of chronic motor or vocal tic disorder depends on its severity, the distress it causes to the patient, and the effects the tics have on school or job performance. Medication and psychotherapy are used only when there is substantial interference with ordinary activities.

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Drugs used to treat tics (dopamine blockers, such as pimozide and risperidone) have a limited rate of success and a relatively high level of side effects.

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis for children who develop this disorder between ages 6 and 8 is good. Symptoms may last 4 to 6 years and then stop without treatment in early adolescence. When the disorder begins in older children and there is no remission or reduction of symptoms well into the 20s, a chronic, life-long disorder may be anticipated.

Complications:

There are usually no complications.

Calling your health care provider:

There is usually no need to see the health care provider for a tic unless it is severe or becomes disruptive to the child's life. If there is a question whether the movements are really a tic (as opposed to a seizure, for example), consult with your health care provider.