1. Huntington’s Disease

2. What Causes It? Inheriting a defective gene
Results in gradual destruction of neurons

3. Causes

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. How It Is Detected?
Genetic testing
Neurological testing
Blood testing

9. 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

10. Works Cited
Appai-Kubi, Linda. "Huntington's disease." netdoctor.co.uk.  NetDoctor.co.uk, Web. 18 October <
"Blood Tests." wrongdiagnosis.com.  Health Grades Inc., Web. 18 October <
"NINDS Huntington's Disease Information." National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Web. 18 October 2010. <
"What is Huntington's Disease?" ahdansw.asn.au. Australian Huntington's Disease Association, Web. 18 October <