Huntington’s Disease
What Causes It? Inheriting a defective gene Results in gradual destruction of neurons
Causes
How Is It Transmitted? Defective gene can be passed from one generation to the next If a parent has the gene, child has a 50/50 chance of inheriting it
Signs and Symptoms Appear between age 30-50 Fidgeting Minor twitching in fingers and toes Excessive restlessness Some clumsiness Short-term memory loss Less ability to organize routine Periods of depression As HD progresses, all physical symptoms can make basic tasks more difficult
How HD Affects Body Mind and body Rapid, jerking movements the person has no control Prone to falls Eye movement Trouble looking Affect the brain Forgetfulness Difficulty to concentrate Sensory symptoms: numbness or pain
How It Is Detected? Genetic testing Neurological testing Blood testing
Treatment Drs. prescribe medications to control emotional and movement problems Tetrabenazine is the first drug in the U.S. approved to treat Huntington’s. Helps control involuntary movements
Works Cited Appai-Kubi, Linda. "Huntington's disease." netdoctor.co.uk. NetDoctor.co.uk, 2010. Web. 18 October 2010. <http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/huntingtons.htm>. "Blood Tests." wrongdiagnosis.com. Health Grades Inc., 2010. Web. 18 October 2010. <http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/test/blood_tests.htm>. "NINDS Huntington's Disease Information." www.ninds.nih.gov. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2010. Web. 18 October 2010. <http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/huntington/huntington.htm>. "What is Huntington's Disease?" ahdansw.asn.au. Australian Huntington's Disease Association, 2009. Web. 18 October 2010. <http://www.ahdansw.asn.au/information/huntingtons.html>.