Objective: This is the first study to investigate the Quality of Life (QOL)
of patients with Gilles de la Tourette's Syndrome (GTS).
Method: One hundred and three out-patients with GTS completed a semi-struct
ured interview and 90 of these completed questionnaires screening for depre
ssion, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviour. QOL was measured with th
e SF-36 and the Quality of Life Assessment Schedule (QOLAS).
Results: Patients with GTS showed significantly worse QOL than a general po
pulation sample. They had better QOL than patients with intractable epileps
y as measured by the QOLAS, although the SF-36 showed significant differenc
es on the subscales Role Limitation due to physical problems and Social Fun
ctioning only. Factors influencing QOL domains were employment status, tic
severity, obsessive-compulsive behaviour, anxiety and depression.
Conclusion: QOL is impaired in patients with GTS. Measurement of QOL could
be used alongside conventional measurements to assess benefit of treatment.
We recommend the QOLAS and SF-36 be used.