MF.03 The Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome behavioural spectrum: a factor analysis of 639 patients. Issue 8 (7th July 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cavanna, A E; Critchley, H D; Orth, M; Stern, J S; Young, M-B; Robertson, M M
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 82:Issue 8(2011)
• Page Start: e2
• Page End: e2
• Publication Date: 2011-07-07
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2011-300504.14
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: Recent studies using quantitative methods, such as principal-component factor analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis and latent class analysis, have suggested that Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) should no longer be considered a unitary condition as in current classification systems. We set out to identify quantitative components of GTS symptomatology using a large, well characterised cohort of singleton individuals with GTS, in order to inform future genetic studies with more homogeneous phenotypes. Methods: Principal-component factor analysis with oblique rotation was used to analyse symptom data from a sample of 639 patients recruited at two tertiary referral centres using identical schedules during the period 1980–2008. Results: Three Factors were identified: (1) complex motor tics and echo-paliphenomena; (2) attention-deficit and hyperactivity symptoms plus aggressive behaviours; (3) complex vocal tics and coprophenomena. Obsessive compulsive behaviours loaded significantly on the first two Factors. The three Factors accounted for 48.5% of the total symptomatic variance. Conclusions: GTS is a phenotypically heterogeneous condition encompassing tics, tic-related symptoms and associated behavioural problems. Our results, coupled with previous findings, identified a clinical continuum of complex involuntary movements, hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms, and semantically relevant utterances and gestures. A better characterisation of the GTS phenotypes will help to identify susceptibility genes.