Gilles de la Tourette’s syndrome /zhēl″də lä to͝orets″/ [George Gilles de la Tourette, French neurologist, 1857–1927] , an abnormal condition characterized by facial grimaces, vocalizations, tics, and involuntary arm and shoulder movements. In adolescence the condition worsens. The patient may grunt, snort, and shout involuntarily. Coprolalia can develop. In adulthood the condition usually lessens and tends to wax and wane. Treatment with dopamine antagonists has been found to be very effective. Also called Tourette’s syndrome. See also aboiement.
