A twin study of Tourette syndrome

Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1985 Aug;42(8):815-20. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.1985.01790310077011.

Abstract

In 43 pairs of same-sex twins, in which at least one co-twin had Tourette syndrome (TS), 30 pairs were probably monozygotic (MZ) and 13 were probably dizygotic (DZ). Concordances for TS were 53% and 8% for MZ and DZ pairs, respectively. When diagnostic criteria were broadened to include any tics in co-twins, concordance rates were 77% and 23% for MZ and DZ pairs, respectively. These concordances are consistent with genetic etiology. However, the fact that only 53% of MZ twins were fully concordant indicates nongenetic factors affect expression of TS. Presence of tics in discordant co-twins and timing of onset in partially concordant co-twins support an association between TS and tics in families with TS present. The data are inconclusive on whether some MZ twins with discordant co-twins are etiologically different from those who are concordant.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Diseases in Twins*
  • Female
  • Haloperidol / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pregnancy
  • Tic Disorders / diagnosis
  • Tic Disorders / genetics
  • Tourette Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Tourette Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Tourette Syndrome / genetics*
  • Twins, Dizygotic
  • Twins, Monozygotic

Substances

  • Haloperidol