Tourette syndrome.

Tourette syndrome is not rare. At an early age, persons with this disorder show involuntary, rapid and purposeless movements of multiple muscle groups. They also develop vocal tics. Both motor and vocal tics vary in intensity and can worsen with stress. The syndrome may be confused with, or associated with, a variety of psychiatric disorders. Although some cases appear to be familial, the etiology of the syndrome is generally unknown. Haloperidol is effective in controlling symptoms in many patients. The Tourette Syndrome Association provides a valuable support system.