Tic disorders are extremely common in youth, affecting an estimated 20-25% of school age children. In clinical settings, tic disorders frequently co-occur with psychiatric and behavioral disorders, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other anxiety and mood disorders. Left untreated, tics and the co-occurring (comorbid) disorders can impair a child's social, educational and recreational functioning.

In the past, Tics and Tourette's disorder were often treated with powerful medications such as haloperidol (Haldol) and pimozide (Orap) which were frequently associated with intolerable side effects. Today, tics, Tourette's and the comorbid disorders are highly treatable with medication and/or psychosocial interventions that are both effective and produce fewer side effects.

Research focuses on the natural history, course, and clinical phenomenology of Tourette's and tic disorders, pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders with streptococcus (PANDAS) and the relationship between tics and psychiatric comorbid disorders. Ongoing research is underway to test the efficacy of new treatments that are not yet available to the general public, or that have not yet been tested specifically in youth with tics and Tourette's.

The clinical component includes comprehensive evaluation, consultation and multi-modal treatment for children and adolescents with tics, Tourette's Disorder and related problems. Individual therapy, family therapy and parent guidance are also available. Some children and adolescents need coordination of services within the school community, or outreach and advocacy, which can also be provided.

Research on Tourette and Tic Disorders is under the directorship of Barbara Coffey, M.D., M.S., Associate Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the NYU School of Medicine's Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Coffey is an internationally-known specialist in Tourette Disorder who also has expertise in treating ADHD and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.

For more information on the Tourette and Tic Disorders Program, please visit the NYU Child Study Center at www.aboutourkids.org.

Download a PANDAS Fact Sheet for Physicians (PDF)

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