Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge, treatment, and diagnosis pathways followed for Tic Disorders across Latin America.

Background: Tic disorders are the most common movement disorders in childhood. However, there is not enough information available about the various aspects or methods of care available for patients with Tic Disorders in Latin America.

Method: An online survey was distributed to experts and neurology groups across Latin America. The survey was based on a review of current evidence on the diagnosis, treatment, and services for Tic Disorders. An online survey was distributed to experts and neurology groups across Latin America. The survey was based on a review of current evidence on the diagnosis, treatment, and services for Tic Disorders. 

Results: A total of 103 healthcare providers from 15 out of 36 countries participated. The results showed that Tic Disorders are mainly diagnosed and treated by general neurologists (85%). In Latin America, pediatric and adult neurology services are readily available (95%), but services for pediatric movement disorders and psychiatry are limited (48%). Furthermore, 71% of the responders reported that there is no access to movement disorders clinics in the public healthcare system, and 66% stated that there are no dedicated clinics, public or private, for Tic Disorders in their country. Rating scales for Tics are used only by 30% of the responders. More than half do not screen or measure comorbidities through rating scales. Antipsychotics are the preferred treatment; more than half of the countries do not have access to Cognitive Behavioural Interventions for Tic Disorders. The most commonly used antipsychotics are risperidone, haloperidol, and quetiapine. The primary obstacles to addressing tic disorders are inadequate access to specialists, insufficient training, and limited patient education.

Conclusion: Tic disorders are ubiquitously diagnosed throughout Latin America, usually by pediatric or adult neurologists. However, there are several limitations, such as a lack of well-defined referral pathways and a shortage of specialists with expertise in tic disorders. Furthermore, patients have limited access to non-pharmacological therapies and information about tics.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/gaps-in-diagnosing-and-treating-tic-disorders-in-latin-america-a-survey-of-healthcare-workers/