Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and other parts of the body. It is primarily caused by long-term use of certain medications, particularly antipsychotic drugs, which are commonly prescribed for psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Diagnosing TD can be challenging as its symptoms can be similar to other movement disorders. However, there are specific criteria and diagnostic tools that healthcare professionals use to identify and confirm the presence of TD.
The first step in diagnosing TD involves a comprehensive clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional, typically a neurologist or psychiatrist. The evaluation includes:
Once the clinical evaluation suggests the possibility of TD, specific diagnostic criteria are used to confirm the diagnosis. The most commonly used criteria are the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) and the Schooler-Kane criteria.
In some cases, additional tests may be performed to rule out other potential causes of the abnormal movements and to confirm the diagnosis of TD. These tests may include:
Diagnosing TD often requires collaboration between different healthcare professionals, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and movement disorder specialists. Their expertise and experience in recognizing and differentiating movement disorders are crucial in accurately diagnosing TD.
It is important to note that early detection and diagnosis of TD are essential for timely intervention and management. If you or someone you know is experiencing abnormal movements while taking antipsychotic medications, it is crucial to seek medical attention and discuss the symptoms with a healthcare professional.