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Feehan A, Charest M. A scoping review of oral language and social communication abilities in children with Tourette syndrome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2024; 59:143-164. [PMID: 37667569 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.12949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with Tourette syndrome (TS) have historically experienced problems in academic and social settings, yet their language and communication abilities have not been extensively researched. AIMS This scoping review maps the literature on the oral language and social communication abilities of children with TS in order to describe the nature of the current literature, present a summary of major findings and identify where gaps exist. METHODS A scoping review was completed to identify studies measuring the oral language or social communication abilities of children with TS. A systematic search of six electronic databases was conducted to obtain published and unpublished literature. All English studies measuring the oral language or social communication abilities of children with TS were included. Information was extracted from records and knowledge was synthesised in a narrative summary. MAIN CONTRIBUTION We identified 56 records for inclusion. Almost all records were located in journals within the fields of psychology and psychiatry. Skills most often studied were verbal IQ and verbal fluency. The literature suggests an increased prevalence of language disorders and social communication problems in children with TS; however, literature comprehensively detailing these challenges was scarce. Language strengths were identified in verbal intelligence, story/sentence recall, categorisation and performance on tasks at the single-word level. CONCLUSIONS Oral language and social communication skills are important for academic and social success. This review brings scattered literature together to provide up-to-date information about language in children with TS and highlights that there are considerable gaps in our knowledge about language and communication in this population. This scoping review can inform future research and support speech language pathologists in the assessment of young people with TS. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS What is already known on the subject Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working in various contexts (e.g., schools, mental health teams) are likely to encounter children with Tourette syndrome (TS); however, the description of this population and potential communication characteristics is not well represented in the SLP literature. Previous literature reviews have reported strengths in verbal fluency and morphological processing. Challenges in expressive language, higher order language, social cognition and a propensity towards autistic traits have also been identified. What this paper adds to existing knowledge This review differs from previous narrative reviews by employing a systematic approach to searching for literature. As a result, we identified 25 additional studies that had not been cited in previous reviews and additional relevant findings in 23 previously reviewed studies. This review confirms several previous conclusions about language in children with TS and extends or clarifies several others, thereby providing the most current information on oral language and social communication abilities. The use of current taxonomies of language and social communication helps to organise this literature for clinicians and researchers in speech-language pathology and identifies a need for further research from the SLP perspective. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? These results imply that SLPs should screen children with TS for language disorders and investigate social communication and social interaction development. Clinicians can expect greater challenges in language and communication development for children with complex forms of TS (i.e., those who exhibit co-occurring conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). The multidisciplinary nature of the current literature implies that clinical collaboration with other disciplines will be of particular benefit to serving this group of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Feehan
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Monique Charest
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Abstract
Background:Tics, defined as quick, rapid, sudden, recurrent, non-rhythmic motor movements or vocalizations are required components of Tourette Syndrome (TS) - a complex disorder characterized by the presence of fluctuating, chronic motor and vocal tics, and the presence of co-existing neuropsychological problems. Despite many advances, the underlying pathophysiology of tics/TS remains unknown.Objective:To address a variety of controversies surrounding the pathophysiology of TS. More specifically: 1) the configuration of circuits likely involved; 2) the role of inhibitory influences on motor control; 3) the classification of tics as either goal-directed or habitual behaviors; 4) the potential anatomical site of origin, e.g. cortex, striatum, thalamus, cerebellum, or other(s); and 5) the role of specific neurotransmitters (dopamine, glutamate, GABA, and others) as possible mechanisms (Abstract figure).Methods:Existing evidence from current clinical, basic science, and animal model studies are reviewed to provide: 1) an expanded understanding of individual components and the complex integration of the Cortico-Basal Ganglia-Thalamo-Cortical (CBGTC) circuit - the pathway involved with motor control; and 2) scientific data directly addressing each of the aforementioned controversies regarding pathways, inhibition, classification, anatomy, and neurotransmitters.Conclusion:Until a definitive pathophysiological mechanism is identified, one functional approach is to consider that a disruption anywhere within CBGTC circuitry, or a brain region inputting to the motor circuit, can lead to an aberrant message arriving at the primary motor cortex and enabling a tic. Pharmacologic modulation may be therapeutically beneficial, even though it might not be directed toward the primary abnormality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey S. Singer
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Farhan Augustine
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Augustine F, Singer HS. Merging the Pathophysiology and Pharmacotherapy of Tics. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) 2019; 8:595. [PMID: 30643668 PMCID: PMC6329776 DOI: 10.7916/d8h14jtx] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anatomically, cortical-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical (CBGTC) circuits have an essential role in the expression of tics. At the biochemical level, the proper conveyance of messages through these circuits requires several functionally integrated neurotransmitter systems. In this manuscript, evidence supporting proposed pathophysiological abnormalities, both anatomical and chemical is reviewed. In addition, the results of standard and emerging tic-suppressing therapies affecting nine separate neurotransmitter systems are discussed. The goal of this review is to integrate our current understanding of the pathophysiology of Tourette syndrome (TS) with present and proposed pharmacotherapies for tic suppression. Methods For this manuscript, literature searches were conducted for both current basic science and clinical information in PubMed, Google-Scholar, and other scholarly journals to September 2018. Results The precise primary site of abnormality for tics remains undetermined. Although many pathophysiologic hypotheses favor a specific abnormality of the cortex, striatum, or globus pallidus, others recognize essential influences from regions such as the thalamus, cerebellum, brainstem, and ventral striatum. Some prefer an alteration within direct and indirect pathways, whereas others believe this fails to recognize the multiple interactions within and between CBGTC circuits. Although research and clinical evidence supports involvement of the dopaminergic system, additional data emphasizes the potential roles for several other neurotransmitter systems. Discussion A greater understanding of the primary neurochemical defect in TS would be extremely valuable for the development of new tic-suppressing therapies. Nevertheless, recognizing the varied and complex interactions that exist in a multi-neurotransmitter system, successful therapy may not require direct targeting of the primary abnormality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Augustine
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Harvey S. Singer
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Morand-Beaulieu S, Leclerc JB, Valois P, Lavoie ME, O'Connor KP, Gauthier B. A Review of the Neuropsychological Dimensions of Tourette Syndrome. Brain Sci 2017; 7:E106. [PMID: 28820427 PMCID: PMC5575626 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7080106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocognitive functioning in Tourette syndrome (TS) has been the subject of intensive research in the past 30 years. A variety of impairments, presumably related to frontal and frontostriatal dysfunctions, have been observed. These impairments were found in various domains, such as attention, memory, executive functions, language, motor and visuomotor functions, among others. In line with contemporary research, other neurocognitive domains have recently been explored in TS, bringing evidence of altered social reasoning, for instance. Therefore, the aims of this review are to give an overview of the neuropsychological dimensions of TS, to report how neuropsychological functions evolve from childhood to adulthood, and to explain how various confounding factors can affect TS patients' performance in neuropsychological tasks. Finally, an important contribution of this review is to show how recent research has confirmed or changed our beliefs about neuropsychological functioning in TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Morand-Beaulieu
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Julie B Leclerc
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100, rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montréal, QC H2X 3P2, Canada.
| | - Philippe Valois
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100, rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montréal, QC H2X 3P2, Canada.
| | - Marc E Lavoie
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, 2960 Chemin de la Tour, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.
- Département de psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, 2900, boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Kieron P O'Connor
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, 100, rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montréal, QC H2X 3P2, Canada.
- Département de psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, 2900, boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Bruno Gauthier
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, 7331 rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, Campus Laval, 1700 rue Jacques-Tétreault, Laval, QC H7N 0B6, Canada.
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Lemelson R, Tucker A. The bird dancer and the warrior king: Divergent lived experiences of Tourette syndrome in Bali. Transcult Psychiatry 2017; 54:540-561. [PMID: 28752797 DOI: 10.1177/1363461517722869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the past two decades, ethnographic, epidemiological and interdisciplinary research has robustly established that culture is significant in determining the long-term outcomes of people with neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric and mood disorders. Yet these cultural factors are certainly not uniform across discrete individual experiences. Thus, in addition to illustrating meaningful differences for people with neuropsychiatric disorder between different cultures, ethnography should also help detail the variations within a culture. Different subjective experiences or outcomes are not solely due to biographical idiosyncrasies-rather, influential factors arising from the same culture can have different impacts on different people. When taking a holistic and intersectional perspective on lived experience, it is crucial to understand the interaction of these factors for people with neuropsychiatric disorders. This paper teases apart such interactions, utilizing comparative case studies of the disparate subjective experiences and illness trajectories of two Balinese people with Tourette syndrome who exhibit similar symptoms. Based on longitudinal person-centered ethnography integrating clinical, psychological, and visual anthropology, this intersectional approach goes beyond symptom interpretation and treatment modalities to identify gendered embodiment and marital practices as influenced by caste to be significant determinants in subjective experience and long-term outcome.
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Uebel-von Sandersleben H, Albrecht B, Rothenberger A, Fillmer-Heise A, Roessner V, Sergeant J, Tannock R, Banaschewski T. Revisiting the co-existence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Chronic Tic Disorder in childhood-The case of colour discrimination, sustained attention and interference control. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178866. [PMID: 28594866 PMCID: PMC5464598 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Chronic Tic Disorder (CTD) are two common and frequently co-existing disorders, probably following an additive model. But this is not yet clear for the basic sensory function of colour processing sensitive to dopaminergic functioning in the retina and higher cognitive functions like attention and interference control. The latter two reflect important aspects for psychoeducation and behavioural treatment approaches. Methods Colour discrimination using the Farnsworth-Munsell 100-hue Test, sustained attention during the Frankfurt Attention Inventory (FAIR), and interference liability during Colour- and Counting-Stroop-Tests were assessed to further clarify the cognitive profile of the co-existence of ADHD and CTD. Altogether 69 children were classified into four groups: ADHD (N = 14), CTD (N = 20), ADHD+CTD (N = 20) and healthy Controls (N = 15) and compared in cognitive functioning in a 2×2-factorial statistical model. Results Difficulties with colour discrimination were associated with both ADHD and CTD factors following an additive model, but in ADHD these difficulties tended to be more pronounced on the blue-yellow axis. Attention problems were characteristic for ADHD but not CTD. Interference load was significant in both Colour- and Counting-Stroop-Tests and unrelated to colour discrimination. Compared to Controls, interference load in the Colour-Stroop was higher in pure ADHD and in pure CTD, but not in ADHD+CTD, following a sub-additive model. In contrast, interference load in the Counting-Stroop did not reveal ADHD or CTD effects. Conclusion The co-existence of ADHD and CTD is characterized by additive as well as sub-additive performance impairments, suggesting that their co-existence may show simple additive characteristics of both disorders or a more complex interaction, depending on demand. The equivocal findings on interference control may indicate limited validity of the Stroop-Paradigm for clinical assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Björn Albrecht
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Aribert Rothenberger
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Anke Fillmer-Heise
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Veit Roessner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Joseph Sergeant
- Department of Clinical Neuropsychology, Faculteit der Psychologie, Vrije University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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Morand-Beaulieu S, Grot S, Lavoie J, Leclerc JB, Luck D, Lavoie ME. The puzzling question of inhibitory control in Tourette syndrome: A meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 80:240-262. [PMID: 28502600 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder involving motor and phonic tics. Inhibitory control is a key issue in TS, and many disruptive or impulsive behaviors might arise from inhibitory deficits. However, conflicting findings regarding TS patients' inhibitory performance in neuropsychological tasks have been reported throughout the literature. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate inhibitory control through neuropsychological tasks, and to analyze the factors modulating inhibitory deficits. To this end, a literature search was performed through MEDLINE and PsycINFO, to retrieve studies including neuropsychological tasks that assessed inhibitory control in TS patients. Of the 4020 studies identified, 61 were included in the meta-analysis, for a total of 1717 TS patients. Our analyses revealed a small to medium effect in favor of inhibitory deficits in TS patients. This effect was larger in TS+ADHD patients, but pure TS patients also showed some inhibitory deficits. Therefore, deficits in inhibitory control seem to be an inherent component of TS, and are exacerbated when ADHD is concomitant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Morand-Beaulieu
- Cognitive and Social Psychophysiology Lab, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - Stéphanie Grot
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - Jacob Lavoie
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - Julie B Leclerc
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - David Luck
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - Marc E Lavoie
- Cognitive and Social Psychophysiology Lab, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Département de psychiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
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Albrecht B, Uebel-von Sandersleben H, Gevensleben H, Rothenberger A. Pathophysiology of ADHD and associated problems-starting points for NF interventions? Front Hum Neurosci 2015; 9:359. [PMID: 26157377 PMCID: PMC4478393 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by severe and age-inappropriate levels of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. ADHD is a heterogeneous disorder, and the majority of patients show comorbid or associated problems from other psychiatric disorders. Also, ADHD is associated with cognitive and motivational problems as well as resting-state abnormalities, associated with impaired brain activity in distinct neuronal networks. This needs to be considered in a multimodal treatment, of which neurofeedback (NF) may be a promising component. During NF, specific brain activity is fed-back using visual or auditory signals, allowing the participants to gain control over these otherwise unaware neuronal processes. NF may be used to directly improve underlying neuronal deficits, and/or to establish more general self-regulatory skills that may be used to compensate behavioral difficulties. The current manuscript describes pathophysiological characteristics of ADHD, heterogeneity of ADHD subtypes and gender differences, as well as frequently associated behavioral problems such as oppositional defiant/conduct or tic disorder. It is discussed how NF may be helpful as a treatment approach within these contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Albrecht
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Holger Gevensleben
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen Göttingen, Germany
| | - Aribert Rothenberger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Göttingen Göttingen, Germany
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Jeter CB, Patel SS, Morris JS, Chuang AZ, Butler IJ, Sereno AB. Oculomotor executive function abnormalities with increased tic severity in Tourette syndrome. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2015; 56:193-202. [PMID: 25040172 PMCID: PMC4803434 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reports conflict as to whether Tourette syndrome (TS) confers deficits in executive function. This study's aim was to evaluate executive function in youths with TS using oculomotor tasks while controlling for confounds of tic severity, age, medication, and severity of comorbid disorders. METHOD Four saccade tasks requiring the executive functions of response generation, response inhibition, and working memory (prosaccade, antisaccade, 0-back, and 1-back) were administered. Twenty youths with TS and low tic severity (TS-low), nineteen with TS and moderate tic severity (TS-moderate), and 29 typically developing control subjects (Controls) completed the oculomotor tasks. RESULTS There were small differences across groups in the prosaccade task. Controlling for any small sensorimotor differences, TS-moderate subjects had significantly higher error rates than Controls and TS-low subjects in the 0-back and 1-back tasks. In the 1-back task, these patients also took longer to respond than Controls or TS-low subjects. CONCLUSIONS In a highly controlled design, the findings demonstrate for the first time that increased tic severity in TS is associated with impaired response inhibition and impaired working memory and that these executive function deficits cannot be accounted for by differences in age, medication or comorbid symptom severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron B. Jeter
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston; Houston, TX, USA
| | - Saumil S. Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX,USA
| | - Jeffrey S. Morris
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alice Z. Chuang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ian J. Butler
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anne B. Sereno
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tourette syndrome (TS) is thought to be associated with striatal dysfunction. Changes within frontostriatal pathways in TS could lead to changes in abilities reliant on the frontal cortex. Such abilities include executive functions and aspects of social reasoning. METHODS This study aimed to investigate executive functioning and Theory of Mind (ToM; the ability to reason about mental states, e.g., beliefs and emotions), in 18 patients with TS and 20 controls. A range of tasks involving ToM were used. These required participants to make judgements about mental states based on pictures of whole faces or the eyes alone, reason about humour in cartoons that featured sarcasm, irony or "slapstick" style humour, and make economic decisions. The executive measures assessed inhibition and verbal fluency. RESULTS Patients with TS exhibited significantly poorer performance than controls on all four tasks involving ToM, even when patients with comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder were excluded. These difficulties were despite no inhibitory deficits. Patients with TS exhibited impairment on the verbal fluency task but their performance on executive and ToM tasks was not related. CONCLUSIONS We propose that TS is associated with changes in ToM. The observed deficits could reflect dysfunction in frontostriatal pathways involving ventromedial prefrontal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare M Eddy
- a Department of Neuropsychiatry , Barberry National Centre for Mental Health , Birmingham , UK
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Toazza R, Salum GA, Flores SM, Jarros RB, Pine DS, de Salles JF, Manfro GG. Phonemic verbal fluency is associated with pediatric anxiety disorders: evidence from a community study. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2014; 24:149-57. [PMID: 24725199 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2013.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders typically begin in childhood and adolescence and predict risk for many problems throughout life. Although some neuropsychological correlates have been described, more research is needed, particularly in adolescents. This study compares neurocognitive characteristics of anxious adolescents with and without comorbidity to externalizing disorders to those of typically developing comparison (TDC) adolescents and adolescents with externalizing disorders alone. METHODS The study included 57 adolescents 12-18 years of age (TDC, n=23; anxiety, n=16; externalizing, n=11; comorbid, n=7). We used a neuropsychological battery to assess eight domains: Orientation, attention, visual perception, memory, arithmetic, language, praxis, and executive function. RESULTS Multivariate analysis of variance revealed a main effect of group in the neurocognitive domains evaluated (F8,48=2.32, p=0.034, ηp(2)=0.279). Post-hoc analysis revealed that executive functions score differed among groups, specifically in the task of verbal fluency (F[df=3]=5.01, p=0.004, ηp(2)=0.221), with both the anxious groups (anxiety and comorbid) presenting a lower score than the TDC and externalizing groups. This effect was independent of age, intelligence, and levels of education. CONCLUSIONS Verbal fluency is specifically impaired in adolescents with anxiety disorders. This extends results from neuroimaging research implicating prefrontal areas in pediatric anxiety disorder neurobiology, and has potential implications to new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudineia Toazza
- 1 Anxiety Disorders Program for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (PROTAIA), Department of Developmental and Personality Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) , Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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A phenomenological investigation of women with Tourette or other chronic tic disorders. Compr Psychiatry 2012; 53:525-34. [PMID: 21867997 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Revised: 06/21/2011] [Accepted: 07/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There are little data concerning clinical characteristics of women with Tourette disorder and chronic tic disorders in the extant literature and what is available mostly focuses on treatment-seeking individuals. The present research was conducted to provide a phenomenological characterization of tic disorders among 185 adult women with tic disorders. In addition to providing a descriptive overview of specific tic symptoms, tic severity, self-reported history of other psychiatric conditions, and impairment/lifestyle impact due to tics, this study compares 185 women and 275 men between 18 and 79 years old with tic disorders (who completed an identical battery of measures) based on demographic, social/economic status indicators, psychiatric variables (comorbidity, family psychiatric history, symptom presentation), adaptive functioning/quality of life, and impairment variables among a nonclinical adult sample. Finally, this research examines the relationship between tic severity and impairment indicators among women with tics. Sixty-eight percent of women in our sample reported severe motor tics and 40% reported severe phonic tics. Our exploratory data suggest that a sizeable number of adult women with persistent tics are suffering from psychiatric comorbidity and psychosocial consequences such as underachievement and social distress. Tic severity in women may be associated with lifestyle interference as well as with symptoms of depression and anxiety, and such symptoms may be more common among women with tics than in men with tics.
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De Monte VE, Geffen G, Carroll A, Bailey M, Campling N. Dual Task Performance in Children With Tourette Syndrome: Controlling for Comorbid ADHD. BRAIN IMPAIR 2012. [DOI: 10.1375/brim.8.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractDual task performance in children with Tourette Syndrome (TS) was studied. The participants were children with TS (N = 48, 40 male, 8 female), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD; mixed types N = 44, 34 male, 10 female) and unaffected controls (N = 48, 34 male, 14 female). Eleven of the TS participants had no comorbidities (TS only) and they were compared to matched groups of participants with TS plus comorbidities (TS+), ADHD, and controls. Each participant was administered screening measures of behaviour, intelligence and verbal ability, as well as specific tests of dual task performance. Children with TS-only correctly recalled fewer digit span forward trials, and identified fewer spaceship pairs than controls under single task conditions in the SkySearch subtest of the Test of Everyday Attention for Children. However, the TS-only and control groups showed better counting performance while simultaneously searching for targets, than the TS+ and ADHD groups. Taken together, these results suggest that some previously reported cognitive deficits in children with TS are due to comorbidities, rather than to the syndrome itself.
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Abstract
Tic disorders, including Tourette syndrome, are an intriguing group of paroxysmal movement abnormalities that begin in childhood, have a fluctuating course, are capable of causing psychosocial and physical problems, and often improve by early adulthood. These disorders are frequently associated with a variety of comorbid problems whose negative effects may exceed those of tics. Therapy is strictly symptomatic and usually includes educational, behavioral, and a variety of pharmacological therapies. Although there is strong evidence supporting an inherited basis, the precise genetic abnormality remains unknown. A proposed poststreptococcal autoimmune etiology remains controversial. Pathophysiologically, tics appear to arise from an alteration within cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuits, but the definitive site is unknown. Evidence supports an abnormality of synaptic neurotransmission, likely involving the dopaminergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey S Singer
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore 21287, USA.
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15
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Eddy CM, Rizzo R, Cavanna AE. Neuropsychological aspects of Tourette syndrome: a review. J Psychosom Res 2009; 67:503-13. [PMID: 19913655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2009.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2009] [Revised: 07/08/2009] [Accepted: 08/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Tourette syndrome (TS) is assumed to result from frontostriatal dysfunction, which would be expected to result in impairments in neuropsychological functions. This possibility has been explored in a number of studies that have assessed the performance of patients with TS within major cognitive domains and on tests involving executive functioning. We aim to summarize the main findings of these studies while evaluating the influence of task limitations and potentially critical confounding factors such as the presence of comorbidity. Although there is clearly a need for improved study design, we tentatively suggest that there is considerable evidence for cognitive impairment in a subgroup of patients, and that some difficulties seem to be intrinsic to TS. These impairments may reflect dysfunction of the anterior cingulate network within the frontostriatal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare M Eddy
- Department of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Huckeba W, Chapieski L, Hiscock M, Glaze D. Arithmetic performance in children with Tourette syndrome: relative contribution of cognitive and attentional factors. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2009; 30:410-20. [PMID: 18938679 DOI: 10.1080/13803390701494970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The study addressed the issue of arithmetic deficiencies in children with Tourette syndrome (TS) as well as explanations for such deficiencies. A total of 47 children with TS were assigned to three subgroups based on a composite attention score from the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA). These children, along with 17 normal controls between 8 and 16 years of age, were tested on standardized measures of IQ, attention, visuospatial ability, and arithmetic achievement. The children also were administered an experimental calculation task with two levels of structure. Children with TS scored below controls on tests of IQ, attention, and arithmetic achievement but not visuospatial ability. The TS subgroup with the greatest impairment of attention accounted for most of the differences in arithmetic achievement. Regression analysis, based on the 47 children with TS, indicated that IQ and TOVA scores were the best predictors of arithmetic achievement. Likewise, the experimental calculation task indicated that the poor performance of some children with TS could be attributed to deficient attention. Irrespective of structure, children in the TS subgroup with the greatest attentional impairment made more attention (but not visuospatial) errors than did controls on the experimental task. Thus, on both the standardized and the experimental tasks, poor arithmetic skill was found only in children with TS who had significant attentional deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Huckeba
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Reiersen AM, Todd RD. Co-occurrence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorders: phenomenology and treatment. Expert Rev Neurother 2008; 8:657-69. [PMID: 18416666 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.8.4.657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th Edition) prohibits the co-diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, recent studies indicate that co-occurrence of clinically significant ADHD and autistic symptoms is common, and that some genes may influence both disorders. Children with the combination of ADHD and motor coordination problems are particularly likely to have an ASD. These co-occurrences of symptoms are important since children with ASD in addition to ADHD symptoms may respond poorly to standard ADHD treatments or have increased side effects. Such children may benefit from additional classes of pharmacologic agents (i.e., alpha-agonists, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and neuroleptics). They may also benefit from social skills therapy, individual and family psychotherapy, behavioral therapy and other nonpharmacologic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Reiersen
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA.
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18
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Abstract
The neuroanatomy and neurochemistry underlying tic disorders are thought to involve corticostriatothalamocortical circuits and dysregulation of their component neurotransmitter systems. Tourette syndrome is a tic disorder that begins in childhood and follows a waxing and waning course of tic severity. Although it is generally believed to have a genetic component, its etiology has not been fully elucidated. The clinical entity pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infection (PANDAS) has led some to suggest that the pathophysiology of tics in some individuals might involve a postinfectious autoimmune component. We review the neural circuits and neurochemistry of Tourette syndrome and evaluate the evidence for and against a role for autoimmunity in the expression of tics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra Harris
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
ADHD is defined by behavioral characteristics similar to neuropsychological disorders of executive dysfunction. This paper is a literature review of the neurocognitive characteristics of ADHD from early childhood through adulthood. The author addresses the development of the concept of attention and executive function (EF) deficits in ADHD, clinical neuropsychological studies of pre-teenage children, teenagers and adults with ADHD, gender and the role of psychiatric co-morbidity including the relationship of learning disabilities to ADHD, heterogeneity of neuropsychological dysfunctions, experimental neuropsychological studies, the relationship of brain structure to function, psychopharmacology of ADHD, and clinical neuropsychological assessment. The group data clearly supports the hypothesis that executive dysfunctions are correlates of ADHD regardless of gender and age, and these EF deficits are exacerbated by co-morbidity with learning disabilities such as dyslexia. However, there is limited data on children under the age of 5, teenagers from age 13-18, and adults with ADHD over the age of 40. Studies of individual classification of people with ADHD compared to healthy, non-psychiatric controls do not support the use of neuropsychological tests for the clinical diagnosis of ADHD, and indicate that not all persons with ADHD have EF deficits. Some persons with ADHD may have deficits in brain reward systems that are relatively independent of EF impairments. Future research should clarify the multiple sources of ADHD impairments, continue to refine neuropsychological tools optimized for assessment, and incorporate longitudinal, developmental designs to understand ADHD across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry J Seidman
- Pediatric Psychopharmacology Clinical and Research Program, Boston, MA, USA.
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Seidman LJ, Biederman J, Valera EM, Monuteaux MC, Doyle AE, Faraone SV. Neuropsychological functioning in girls with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with and without learning disabilities. Neuropsychology 2006; 20:166-77. [PMID: 16594777 DOI: 10.1037/0894-4105.20.2.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors' goal was to assess neuropsychological performance in girls with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and evaluate the role of comorbid learning disabilities (LDs). Participants were 140 girls with ADHD and 122 girls without ADHD, ages 6-17 years. Neuropsychological performance was measured in a standardized manner, blind to clinical status. LD was defined by a combined regression-based and low-achievement classification. ADHD was associated with modest, but significant, neuropsychological impairment, as measured with an aggregate measure of performance and with the Stroop Color-Word Test, independent of age, social class, IQ, and psychiatric comorbidity. Neuropsychological deficits were most pronounced in girls with both ADHD and an LD and in those without medications. These results extend to females the previously documented association of LDs with neuropsychological functioning in males with ADHD.
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Erenberg G. The relationship between tourette syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and stimulant medication: a critical review. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2005; 12:217-21. [PMID: 16780292 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2005.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between tic disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is of great clinical importance because both disorders can lead to emotional, social, and academic difficulties. To further complicate this interrelationship is the concern that the use of psychostimulant medication to treat ADHD will help the hyperactivity and attention problems but will lead to the onset of tics or will worsen preexisting tics. The first part of this review investigates how often Tourette syndrome (TS) is associated with ADHD and finds that ADHD has been reported in 35% to 90% of children with TS. The second part of the review looks at whether the ADHD seen in TS is the same as in children who do not have tics. Recent studies lead to the conclusion that the ADHD seen in TS is the same, although the attentional difficulties seen in TS are influenced also by the distraction of the tics themselves as well as by internal distractions such as is seen in comorbid anxiety or obsessive-compulsive behavior. The final part of the review investigates the question of whether psychostimulants worsen or cause tics. Twenty-two studies were found that investigated this possible relationship. Earlier studies were confounded by the natural pattern seen in TS in which tics spontaneously wax and wane in occurrence, intensity, and frequency. More recent double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown that psychostimulants are equally effective in improving ADHD symptoms whether the disorder is associated with tics or not. When group data are analyzed, there is no significant increase in tics when psychostimulants are used in patients with tics compared with controls. Individual patients, however, may experience an increase in tics. This increase is not appreciated in analysis of group data. In conclusion, it is medically appropriate to provide treatment with psychostimulant medication in persons with tics where the ADHD symptoms are significantly disturbing their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Erenberg
- Department of Neurology, Section of Child Neurology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Seidman LJ, Biederman J, Monuteaux MC, Valera E, Doyle AE, Faraone SV. Impact of gender and age on executive functioning: do girls and boys with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder differ neuropsychologically in preteen and teenage years? Dev Neuropsychol 2005; 27:79-105. [PMID: 15737943 DOI: 10.1207/s15326942dn2701_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
ADHD is known to have neuropsychological correlates, characterized mainly by executive function (EF) deficits. However, most available data are based on studies of boys through age 12. Our goal was to assess whether girls with ADHD express neuropsychological features similar to those found in boys, and whether these impairments are found in both preteen and teen samples. Participants were 101 girls and 103 boys with DSM-III-R ADHD, and 109 comparison girls and 70 boys without ADHD, ages 9 to 17 years. Information on neuropsychological performance was obtained in a standardized manner blind to clinical status. Primary regression analyses controlled for age, socioeconomic status, learning disability, and psychiatric comorbidity. Girls and boys with ADHD were significantly more impaired on some measures of EFs than healthy comparisons but did not differ significantly from each other. With the exception of 1 test score there were no significant Sex x Diagnosis interactions. Moreover, there were no more significant interactions among age, gender, and diagnosis than would be expected by chance. Neuropsychological measures of EFs were comparably impaired in girls compared to boys with ADHD, and these impairments are found at ages 9 to 12 and ages 13 to 17. These findings suggest that executive dysfunctions are correlates of ADHD regardless of gender and age, at least through the late teen years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry J Seidman
- Pediatric Psychopharmacology Unit, Psychiatry Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Hurks PPM, Hendriksen JGM, Vles JSH, Kalff AC, Feron FJM, Kroes M, van Zeben TMCB, Steyaert J, Jolles J. Verbal fluency over time as a measure of automatic and controlled processing in children with ADHD. Brain Cogn 2004; 55:535-44. [PMID: 15223200 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2004.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The performance of ADHD children on semantic category fluency (SCF) versus initial letter fluency (ILF) tasks was examined. For each participant, word production was recorded for each 15-s time slice on each task. Performance on both fluency tasks was compared to test the hypothesis that children with ADHD are characterized by a performance deficit on the ILF task because performance on this task is less automated than performance on the SCF. Children classified with ADHD (N = 20) were compared to children with other psychopathology (N = 118) and healthy controls (N = 130). Results indicated that the groups could not be differentiated by the total number of words produced in 60 s in either fluency task. As hypothesized, a significant interaction of group by productivity over time by type of fluency task was found: ADHD children had more problems finding words in the first 15 s of the IFL than did children in the other two groups, and as compared with their performance on the SCF. Results were taken to indicate that children with ADHD symptoms show a delay in the development of automating skills for processing abstract verbal information.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P M Hurks
- Department of Neuropsychology and Biopsychology, University of Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Seidman LJ, Doyle A, Fried R, Valera E, Crum K, Matthews L. Neuropsychological function in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2004; 27:261-82. [PMID: 15063997 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2003.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the current state of the literature pertaining to the neuropsychological dysfunctions that are found in children and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Be-cause considerable controversy has existed about the nature and validity of adult ADHD, this article will aid clinicians in develop-ing a better understanding of the empirical literature on neuropsychological function in ADHD throughout the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry J Seidman
- Pediatric Psychopharmacology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, 15 Parkma Street, WACC 725, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Singer HS, Minzer K. Neurobiology of Tourette's syndrome: concepts of neuroanatomic localization and neurochemical abnormalities. Brain Dev 2003; 25 Suppl 1:S70-84. [PMID: 14980376 DOI: 10.1016/s0387-7604(03)90012-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Despite a preponderance of evidence suggesting an organic rather than psychogenic origin for Tourette syndrome, the precise neurobiological abnormality remains speculative. Neuroanatomically, there is expanding confirmation that cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical pathways represent the site of origin for tics and accompanying neuropsychiatric problems. Pathophysiological hypothesis are generally defined based on involvement of (1) a specific anatomical site (striato-thalamic circuits, striatal compartments), (2) physiologic abnormality (excess thalamic excitation, impaired intracortical inhibition), or (3) involvement of a specific neurotransmitter or synaptic component. This review provides information essential for understanding current and future proposals pertaining to the neurobiology of this intriguing disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey S Singer
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Palomo T, Beninger RJ, Kostrzewa RM, Archer T. Brain sites of movement disorder: genetic and environmental agents in neurodevelopmental perturbations. Neurotox Res 2003; 5:1-26. [PMID: 12832221 DOI: 10.1007/bf03033369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In assessing and assimilating the neurodevelopmental basis of the so-called movement disorders it is probably useful to establish certain concepts that will modulate both the variation and selection of affliction, mechanisms-processes and diversity of disease states. Both genetic, developmental and degenerative aberrations are to be encompassed within such an approach, as well as all deviations from the necessary components of behaviour that are generally understood to incorporate "normal" functioning. In the present treatise, both conditions of hyperactivity/hypoactivity, akinesia and bradykinesia together with a constellation of other symptoms and syndromes are considered in conjunction with the neuropharmacological and brain morphological alterations that may or may not accompany them, e.g. following neonatal denervation. As a case in point, the neuroanatomical and neurochemical points of interaction in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are examined with reference to both the perinatal metallic and organic environment and genetic backgrounds. The role of apoptosis, as opposed to necrosis, in cell death during brain development necessitates careful considerations of the current explosion of evidence for brain nerve growth factors, neurotrophins and cytokines, and the processes regulating their appearance, release and fate. Some of these processes may possess putative inherited characteristics, like alpha-synuclein, others may to greater or lesser extents be endogenous or semi-endogenous (in food), like the tetrahydroisoquinolines, others exogenous until inhaled or injested through environmental accident, like heavy metals, e.g. mercury. Another central concept of neurodevelopment is cellular plasticity, thereby underlining the essential involvement of glutamate systems and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor configurations. Finally, an essential assimilation of brain development in disease must delineate the relative merits of inherited as opposed to environmental risks not only for the commonly-regarded movement disorders, like Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and epilepsy, but also for afflictions bearing strong elements of psychosocial tragedy, like ADHD, autism and Savantism.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Palomo
- Servicio de Psiquiatria, Hospital 12 de Octobre, Ctra. Andalucia Km. 5,400, 28041 Madrid, Spain.
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Sergeant JA, Geurts H, Oosterlaan J. How specific is a deficit of executive functioning for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder? Behav Brain Res 2002; 130:3-28. [PMID: 11864714 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-4328(01)00430-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A selective review of research in the executive functioning (EF) is given for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), higher functioning autism (HFA) and Tourette syndrome. The review is restricted due to changes in the classification of the disorder in recent years and secondly the heterogeneity of EF is restricted to five key areas of concern, inhibition, set shifting, working memory, planning, and fluency. The review makes clear that there are strong differences between child psychopathological groups and controls on these EFs. However, future research will be needed to identify an EF deficit or profile, which is specific for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Sergeant
- Klinische Neuropsychologie, Vrije Universiteit, Van der Boechorststraat 1, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
The present study examined gender differences in ADHD through a meta-analysis. Effect size estimates for the primary symptoms and correlates of ADHD were calculated in an attempt to replicate and extend a previous meta-analysis on gender differences in the disorder. Relatively lenient inclusion criteria were used in order to maximize the number of studies included in the effect sizes. The results indicated that in comparison to ADHD boys, ADHD girls had lower ratings on hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, and externalizing problems. In addition, ADHD girls had greater intellectual impairments and more internalizing problems than ADHD boys. Overall, the results of the current meta-analysis indicated general agreement with the previous meta-analysis. The clinical implications of these gender differences and future research considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Gershon
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, 532 North Kilgo Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322-2470, USA.
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Budman CL, Feirman L. The Relationship of Tourette's Syndrome With Its Psychiatric Comorbidities: Is There an Overlap? Psychiatr Ann 2001. [DOI: 10.3928/0048-5713-20010901-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Castellanos FX, Marvasti FF, Ducharme JL, Walter JM, Israel ME, Krain A, Pavlovsky C, Hommer DW. Executive function oculomotor tasks in girls with ADHD. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2000; 39:644-50. [PMID: 10802983 DOI: 10.1097/00004583-200005000-00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess executive function in girls with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using oculomotor tasks as possible trait markers for neurobiological studies. METHOD Thirty-two girls aged 6 to 13 years with DSM-IV ADHD and 20 age-matched, normal control girls were tested on a variety of oculomotor tasks requiring attention, working memory, and response inhibition, which included smooth pursuit, delayed response, and go-no go tasks. RESULTS Girls with ADHD performed the delayed response task correctly on 32% of trials as measured by number of memory-guided saccades, in contrast to 62% of trials for control subjects (p = .0009). Patients made twice as many commission errors to no go stimuli (p = .0001) and 3 times as many intrusion errors (saccades in the absence of go or no go stimuli; p = .004) during the go-no go task compared with controls. Smooth pursuit performance was statistically equivalent across subject groups. Repeated testing in a subgroup of 15 patients revealed substantial practice effects on go-no go performance. CONCLUSIONS The data confirm that girls with ADHD exhibit impairments in executive function, as has been reported in boys, implying a similar pathophysiology of ADHD in both sexes. However, practice effects may limit the utility of the oculomotor go-no go task for some neurobiological studies.
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Abstract
This article includes a discussion of approaches designed to determine neuroanatomic localization through the use of physical examination, electrophysiologic and neuroradiographic studies, and neuropathologic evaluations. The author reviews the anatomy, function, and biochemistry of frontal-subcortical circuits. Inferred and direct evidence that supports a disorder of frontal-subcortical circuits in Tourette syndrome is presented. Studies investigating specific neurotransmitters are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Singer
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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