Intellectual disability as a comorbidity in Tourette syndrome: a case report

Purpose
This case report of Tourette syndrome with intellectual disability as a comorbid condition may help us learn more about neuropsychiatric disorders as a comorbid condition. Increased knowledge and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease may help with the management of it.

Case description
We report on a 12-year-old male patient with motor and vocal tics that have been present since the age of 1 and have worsened over time – this is typical for patients with comorbid intellectual disability and behavioral impairment. An MRI of the head showed decreased hippocampal volume. The patient was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome on the basis of his history and a physical exa­mination.

Comment
As many as 86-90% of patients with Tourette syndrome have at least one comorbid condition or coexisting neuropsychological problems. Tourette syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of physical symptoms, especially the presence of multiple motor and vocal tics that began before the person was 21 years old. The diagnosis must also be supported by the presence of a comorbid behavioral disorder.