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DSM
The diagnostic service manual commonly used in the United States of America. This manual contains the criteria doctors use to diagnose conditions such as Tourette Syndrome. The most recent version is DSM IV-TR. [see ICD]Gene
A section of DNA that codes for one polypeptide. These polypeptides make up the bodies chemicals (eg. hormones, enzymes) and these chemicals then have an effect on the phenotype of the organism.Genotype
The actual genetic makeup of a person. For example, if a person had one gene for Brown eyes (B) and one gene for blue eyes (b) then their genotype would be Bb.Heterozygous
When a person has two different genes at a single locus they are said to be heterozygous.Homozygous
When a person has two copies of the same gene at a single locus they are said to be homozygous.ICD
'International Classification of Diagnoses' is the commonly used diagnostic aid used in Europe. [see DSM]Locus
The position on a chromosome of a gene. For example, the GTS gene is at locus 23 on gene 11. The visible signs of a gene. For example, if the genotype was BB, the phenotype would be blue eyes.TIC
A rapid, recurrent, non-rhythmic stereotyped behaviour. Can be motor (body movement), vocal, breathing, mental or sensory (although the last three do not always fit these criteria).
Some of the symptoms (tics) involved in Tourette Syndrome have specialized names as they cannot be described easily in just a few words. These names have roots in ancient Greek. The definitions are probably useful to know.
Praxis or ‘doing/action in drama/exhibited in actual life’. It is used to describe motor (movement) tics, and takes the form –praxia. i.e. copropraxia and echopraxia (note that palipraxia is not listed. I have never heard this term used and, in my opinion, all tics are palipraxia.)