Tourette Syndrome

Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic doctors who have training in mental health conditions (psychologists and psychiatrists) and nervous system conditions (neurologists) diagnose Tourette syndrome.

To diagnose Tourette syndrome, your doctor will discuss your medical history and symptoms. You may be diagnosed with Tourette syndrome if you have experienced both motor and vocal tics for at least one year, with symptoms beginning in childhood. Tourette syndrome often is associated with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Your doctor sometimes may conduct other tests to rule out other conditions.

Tests may include:

• Blood tests. Your doctor sometimes may order blood tests to rule out other conditions.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed, three-dimensional view of your brain.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG records your brain wave activity.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses powerful radio waves and magnets to create a three-dimensional view of your brain.

Read more about computerized tomography (CT) scan, electroencephalogram and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at MayoClinic.com.