Understanding sensory responses in Tourette Syndrome
Neural Correlates of Sensory Phenomena in Tourette Syndrome
This study is trying to understand how adults with Tourette Syndrome react to touch and sound to see how it affects their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT03914664 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate the sensory over-responsivity (SOR) experienced by adults with Tourette Syndrome (TS). Participants will undergo a standardized clinical assessment and various monitoring techniques, including electroencephalogram (EEG) and autonomic function tests, while exposed to tactile and auditory stimuli. The goal is to clarify the neurobiological mechanisms underlying SOR, which is a significant yet under-recognized aspect of TS that impacts quality of life. By enhancing our understanding of SOR, the study seeks to contribute to a more comprehensive view of TS pathophysiology.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome or other chronic tic disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with significant neurological disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia, may not benefit from this study due to potential confounding factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of sensory symptoms in patients with Tourette Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While the study addresses a relatively under-explored area, similar studies have shown promise in understanding sensory processing in other neurological conditions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria for TS arm: * Diagnosis of Tourette syndrome or other chronic tic disorder * ≥ 18 years of age * Ability to complete survey instruments * English fluency (given that all scales are validated in English) Exclusion criteria for TS arm: - Known diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, other significant neurologic disease, schizophrenia, or psychotic disorders will be excluded, in order to lessen potentially confounding factors. (Note: Patients with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and/or depression will be permitted, given that these diagnoses are widely prevalent in the adult TS population.) * Use of anti-seizure medications, stimulants, or other psychotropic medications known to alter EEG signal * Recreational substance use within past 30 days Inclusion criteria for healthy control arm: * ≥ 18 years of age AND age within 5 years of a participant in the TS arm of same biological sex (for purposes of age- and sex-matching) * Ability to complete survey instruments * English fluency (given that all scales are validated in English) Exclusion criteria for healthy control arm: * Any neurologic or psychiatric diagnoses * History of tics * Use of any psychotropic medications within the past 30 days * Recreational substance use within past 30 days
Where this trial is running
Nashville, Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, Tennessee, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: David A Isaacs, MD
- Email: david.a.isaacs@vumc.org
- Phone: 615-875-7394
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.