Tourette's syndrome mimicking asthma

J Asthma. 1999 May;36(3):253-6. doi: 10.3109/02770909909075408.

Abstract

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder consisting of chronic motor tics and involuntary vocalizations. Some of these vocalizations include coughing, grunting, and wheezing. We report two adolescents with a history of chronic coughing who presented for further evaluation of previously diagnosed asthma. A careful history suggested that Tourette's syndrome might be responsible for the patients' symptoms. Neurology evaluation confirmed the correct diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome for both patients. Treatment specific for this disease led to ablation of all symptoms. A history of repetitive coughing in adolescents may be the presenting symptom of Tourette's syndrome, thereby mimicking cough-equivalent asthma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Asthma / diagnosis*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Cough / diagnosis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Haloperidol / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physical Examination
  • Tourette Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Tourette Syndrome / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Haloperidol