Close message

Transient tic disorder

BlankSend to a friend

307.21 Transient Tic Disorder

Diagnostic Features

The essential feature of Transient Tic Disorder is the presence of single or multiple motor tics and/or vocal tics (Criterion A). The tics occur many times a day, nearly every day for at least 4 weeks, but for no longer than 12 consecutive months (Criterion B). The other essential features (Criteria C and D) are the same as for Tourette's Disorder. Transient Tic Disorder is not diagnosed if the criteria for Tourette's Disorder or Chronic Motor or Vocal Tic Disorder (both of which require a duration of at least 1 year) have ever been met (Criterion E). The other characteristics of the disorder are generally the same as for Tourette's Disorder (see p. 111), except that the severity of the symptoms and the functional impairment are usually much less.

Specifiers

The course of Transient Tic Disorder may be indicated by specifying Single Episode or Recurrent.

Differential Diagnosis

Refer to the "Differential Diagnosis" section for Tic Disorders (p. 110).

Diagnostic criteria for 307.21 Transient Tic Disorder

  1. Single or multiple motor and/or vocal tics (i.e., sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic, stereotyped motor movements or vocalizations)
  2. The tics occur many times a day, nearly every day for at least 4 weeks, but for no longer than 12 consecutive months.
  3. The onset is before age 18 years.
  4. The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., stimulants) or a general medical condition (e.g., Huntington's disease or postviral encephalitis).
  5. Criteria have never been met for Tourette's Disorder or Chronic Motor or Vocal Tic Disorder.

Specify if:

Single Episode or Recurrent

Reprinted with permission from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text RevisionTM. Copyright 2000 American Psychiatric Association. All Rights Reserved.