COMPARISON OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTION IN TOURETTE SYNDROME IN CHILDREN WITH AND WITHOUT ADHD

Abstract

Introduction Executive function define as ability to maintain a suitable and gool directed condition for problem solving. The results of previous studies on Tourette syndrome (TS) were contradiction, but the impairment of visual-spatial performance, working memory and reaction time were shown. In children with Attention Defiat Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) impairment of set shifting, motor inhibition and planning are present. This study aimed to evaluate executive function in children and adolescent's with Tourette syndrome with and without attention deficit hyperactive disorder. Methods This descriptive-analytic (case-control) study was performed in children and adolescents presenting to the Psychiatry Clinic of Rozbeh Hospital during 1381-1383. By means of clinical psychiatric evaluation, K-SADS and DSM-IV criteria, 26 children and adolescents age 7-17 years diagnosed with ADHD with Tourette, and Tourette were enrolled in the study. Also 15 healthy matched subjects were enrolled as a control group. In each group, Tower of London Test, and Yale and Conners Behavior Rating Scales were used. Results There isn't significant differences between tourette syndrome and control group in field of move planning ad subsequent (P>0.05). But in group with combined ADHD and TS there is a significant differences (P=0.048, P=0.02, P=0.03). Conclusions Comparison of the 3 groups showed impairment of attention, planning, and working memory impulsivity (executive function) in children and adolescents with Tourette and ADHD. Keywords Executive Function, Tourette syndrome, ADHD.