Global bibliometric analysis of Tourette syndrome research (1960–2024): trends, collaborations and emerging themes

TL;DR

This paper analyzes global Tourette Syndrome research trends from 1960 to 2024, highlighting growth, collaboration patterns, and emerging research themes.

Contribution

The study provides the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of Tourette Syndrome research, revealing evolving trends and collaboration dynamics.

Findings

TS research has grown in phases, with psychiatry, psychology, and neurology as dominant domains.

The U.S. is the top contributor, while European countries show stronger international collaboration.

Research themes have shifted from genetics to patient quality of life and precision interventions.

Abstract

Tourette Syndrome (TS), a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, has seen a substantial increase in research activity, yet a systematic bibliometric analysis elucidating the global research landscape remains lacking. This study therefore employs bibliometric methods to comprehensively examine the evolution of TS research trends, international collaboration patterns, core contributors, and research hotspots, thereby providing a scientific foundation for future research directions and policy development.

Based on the Web of Science Core Collection, a topic-based search strategy yielded 4,011 records (1960–2024). Bibliometric analyses were performed using R software and VOSviewer, incorporating annual publication trends, geographical distribution, journal impact metrics (impact factor and H-index), core author collaboration networks, and keyword co-occurrence mapping to assess the structure and dynamics of the research ecosystem.

The bibliometric analysis encompassed 4,011 publications involving 12,860 authors and 5,524 keywords. TS research exhibited a phased growth pattern. Psychiatry, psychology, and neurosciences & neurology emerged as the dominant research domains. While the United States remained the primary contributor, European countries—particularly the United Kingdom, Germany, and Denmark—demonstrated superior international collaboration. Movement Disorders proved the most productive journal, whereas JAMA Psychiatry held the greatest impact. Leading contributors such as Dr. James F. Leckman and institutions including Yale University showed exceptional research productivity. Over time, research themes have shifted from early emphases on genetics and neuroimaging to recent focuses on patient quality of life and precision interventions, reflecting a trend toward interdisciplinary integration and clinical translation.

Tourette syndrome (TS) research has evolved from descriptive analyses to multidisciplinary integration, yet requires enhanced cross-regional collaboration and application of emerging technologies. Future efforts should prioritize elucidating gene–environment interaction mechanisms, advancing AI-assisted diagnostics, and refining personalized treatment strategies. Concurrently, bridging regional research disparities through global alliances and standardized data platforms is imperative to ensure that scientific discoveries are translated into clinical and societal benefits. Study limitations regarding potential language and database biases underscore the importance of inclusive methodologies in subsequent investigations.

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