Huntington's disease is a progressive brain disorder that is the result of a genetic defect. This eMedTV article provides an overview of Huntington's disease, including information about how the disorder is inherited, diagnosed, and treated.
Juvenile Huntington disease is a brain disorder in which symptoms tend to develop before age 20. This eMedTV Web page describes juvenile Huntington disease (HD) and explains how its symptoms differ from those seen with adult-onset HD.
The cause of Huntington's disease is a defect in a gene that results in the creation of an abnormal protein. This eMedTV article explains how this abnormal protein affects certain nerve cells, which causes the symptoms of Huntington's disease.
A child of a parent with the condition has a 50-50 chance of inheriting Huntington's disease (HD). This eMedTV Web page discusses how Huntington's disease is inherited and explains that some cases of HD may be the result of a new genetic mutation.
Symptoms of Huntington disease may include mood swings, depression, and involuntary movements. This eMedTV segment identifies common symptoms associated with both adult-onset and juvenile (early-onset) Huntington disease.
A doctor diagnosing Huntington's disease often begins with a review of the patient's medical history. This eMedTV article explains the steps involved in making a Huntington's disease diagnosis, which may also include genetic testing.
Huntington's disease genetic testing involves checking a blood sample for a certain mutation. This eMedTV page offers an in-depth look at genetic testing for Huntington's disease, including considerations to be aware of before being tested.
Treatment for Huntington's disease involves managing the symptoms of the disorder. This eMedTV Web page explains how medications, speech therapy, swallowing therapy, and other treatments are used to help control symptoms of Huntington's disease.
A Huntington's disease support group can help some people cope with the disease. This eMedTV article suggests things to look for in a support group for Huntington's disease, such as a leader who distills discussion into useful information.
Some Huntington's disease research now under way includes studies of the HD gene and fetal tissue research. This eMedTV resource describes research being conducted to better understand and treat Huntington's disease.
According to Huntington's disease statistics, about 30,000 people in the U.S. have the condition. This eMedTV article provides statistics concerning the prevalence, inheritance, and progression of Huntington's disease.
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