Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome, a combination of multiple chronic tics and vocalizations, usually first occurring during childhood, is described in its history, symptomatology, genetics, etiology and therapy. Traditionally TS has been viewed either as an organic or as a psychogenic disorder. We propose an integrative concept combining both aspects. During a vulnerable phase in childhood a hypersensitivity of dopamine 2-receptors, induced by gene defects or perinatal trauma, leads to a lack of suppression of subcortical programs which discharge as tics. Tics are modified by multiple psychological contents (aggressive or sexual impulses, imitation of others) which tend to become independent of their origin. Severity of tics in the course of the illness is often dependent on the emotional status of the patient. Recent research focuses on the search for a major gene locus and the relationship between dopamine-receptor hypersensibility and the disturbances of other neurotransmitter systems (norepinephrine, serotonin, endorphin).