This case involves a 11-year-old boy who presented with an uncontrollable shoulder shrug after returning from a school field trip. Tourettes Syndrome was suspected and he was administered an antipsychotic. Following the administration of the medication, the patient developed severe involuntary muscle contractions in his arms and one leg, allegedly as a complication of the antipsychotic use. An expert in pediatric neurology was sought to review the case and provide an opinion on causation.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Are there specific diagnostic criteria for Tourette Syndrome? If so, please explain.
2. What are the probable causes of Tardive Dystonia?
Expert Witness Response E-026014
My experience in Tourette's syndrome dates back to my residency training. As such, I have 25+ years of experience in diagnosing and treatment of this disorder. In addition, I have a Ph.D. in pharmacology and have lectured neuropharmacology since then. I have 20 years of academic pediatric neurology practice experience in my institution where Tourette's syndrome is encountered weekly. I have lectured periodically to internists and pediatricians on Tourette's syndrome and neuroleptics use. Neuroleptics use could cause Tardive Dystonia, especially chronic use. I use neuroleptics frequently for my patients, although currently, I use mostly safer atypical neuroleptics.
About the author
Victoria Negron
Victoria Negron has extensive experience in journalism and thought leadership in the legal space, with a background crafting content, whitepapers, webinars, and current event articles pertaining to the role of expert witnesses in complex litigation matters. She is a skilled professional specializing in B2B product marketing and content marketing. Currently, she serves as an Enterprise Product Marketing Manager at Postman, and previously held the position of Technical Product Marketing Manager at Palantir Technologies, where she developed her skills in launch strategies, go-to-market strategy, and competitive analysis.
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