Prognosis of rapid onset functional tic‐like behaviors: Prospective follow‐up over 6 months

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The prognosis of rapid onset functional tic‐like behaviors (FTLBs) is unknown. This prospective cohort study describes the course and treatment of rapid onset FTLBs in adolescents (n = 20) and adults (n = 9) previously reported in two case series. METHODS: Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) scores were compared between first clinical presentation and 6‐month follow‐up assessment. All treatments used for FTLBs and any psychiatric comorbidities were recorded. RESULTS: In adolescents with FTLBs, motor tics, vocal tics, total tics, impairment, and global scores on the YGTSS significantly improved at 6 months, with a mean decrease in the YGTSS global score of 31.9 points, 95% confidence interval (CI) 15.4, 48.4, p = .0005. In adults with FTLBs, only impairment and global scores significantly improved, with a mean decrease in the YGTSS global score of 19.6 points, 95% CI −3.2, 42.3, p = .04. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression were the most used treatment in both age groups. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective study suggests that adolescents have a better prognosis than adults with FTLBs. Management of comorbidities with SSRIs and CBT seems effective.