
Georges Gilles de la Tourette
Georges Gilles de la Tourette was a French neurologist who first described Tourette syndrome in the late 1800s. Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and sounds called tics. These tics can include blinking, facial grimacing, throat clearing, or sudden spoken words. The condition typically begins in childhood and varies in severity. It's linked to differences in brain chemistry and circuitry, particularly involving the basal ganglia. While the exact cause isn't fully understood, genetics and environmental factors may play roles. Tourette syndrome is manageable with therapies and sometimes medication, allowing many individuals to lead active lives.