2011 issue 1

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Volume 20, issue 1

Case report

The role of psychological factors in the course of tic syndrome in a 20-year-old male – a case report

Agnieszka Skrzypulec1, Seweryn Segiet1, Adam Szuścik1, Krzysztof Krysta1, Irena Krupka-Matuszczyk1
1. Katedra i Klinika Psychiatrii i Psychoterapii, Śląski Uniwersytet Medyczny, Katowice
Postępy Psychiatrii i Neurologii 2011, 20(1): 59–62
Keywords: tics, Tourette’s syndrome, psychological factors

Abstract

Objectives. A case of a 20-year-old man with tic disorder is presented and the role of psychological factors in the development of his condition is discussed.
Case report. The patient diagnosed with the Tourette syndrome at age 3 was repeatedly hospitalized in child psychiatry and neurology departments. Due to tics exacerbation he was submitted to tiopental-induced coma thrice. Differentiated pharmacotherapy resulted in transient outcomes. No psychotherapy has ever been attempted. The patient was diagnosed with immature personality, manifested anxiety and depressive behaviors and a low self-acceptance level. He had two suicide attempts and was a medication abuser. He responded to stressful situations with aggravation of somatic symptoms.
Commentary. During the patient's most recent hospitalization a significant role of mental disorders in the development and exacerbation of his tic disorder was postulated. Cooperation between various health professionals, particularly psychiatrists, psychotherapists and neurologists is necessary both in the diagnostic process and treatment.

Address for correspondence:
dr n. med. Krzysztof Krysta
Katedra i Klinika Psychiatrii i Psychoterapii SUM w Katowicach,
SPSK nr 7 Górnośląskie Centrum Medyczne
ul. Ziołowa 45/47, 40-635 Katowice
e-mail: krysta@mp.pl