A positive diagnosis of functional (psychogenic) tics

• DOI: 10.1111/ene.12609
• Publication Date: 2014-12-09T16:25:14Z
• Authors: B. Demartini; L. Ricciardi; I. Parees; C. Ganos; K. P. Bhatia; M. J. Edwards
• Keywords: Psychogenic disease; Movement Disorders; Functional impairment

Background and purpose Functional tics, also called psychogenic tics or pseudo‐tics, are difficult to diagnose because of the lack diagnostic criteria their clinical similarities organic tics. The aim present study was report a case series patients with documented functional describe characteristics, risk factors psychiatric comorbidity. Also tips suggested which might help differential diagnosis in practice. Methods results Eleven (mean age at onset 37.2, SD 13.5; three females) were included clinically established according consultant neurologists who have specific expertise movement disorders tic disorders. Adult onset, absent family history inability suppress movements, premonitory sensations, absence pali‐, echo‐ copro‐phenomena, presence blocking typical rostrocaudal distribution coexistence other common our patients. Conclusions Our data suggest that can be differentiated from on grounds, although it is accepted this distinction certain cases. Clinical clues examination described here identify