Huntington's disease

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Huntington chorea

There is no cure for Huntington's disease, and there is no known way to stop progression of the disorder. Treatment is aimed at slowing progression and maximizing ability to function for as long as possible.

Medications vary depending on the symptoms. Dopamine blockers such as haloperidol or phenothiazine medications may reduce abnormal behaviors and movements. Reserpine and other medications have been used, with varying success. Drugs like Tetrabenazine and Amantadine are used to try to control extra movements. There has been some evidence to suggest that Co-Enzyme Q10 may minimally decrease progression of the disease.

Psychiatric illness, depression and suicide are common in Huntington's Disease. It is important for the caretaker and the physicians who care for a person with Huntington's Disease to monitor for symptoms and treat accordingly.

Symptomatic treatment for the dementia is similar to that used for any organic brain syndrome . Initially, reminders and aids may improve memory function. There is a progressive need for assistance and supervision, and 24-hour care may eventually be required.

Support groups for people affected by Huntington's disease are available and can help reduce the stress of dealing with this difficult diagnosis and its impact on reproductive and other life choices. See the Huntington's Disease Society of America for local information: http://www.hdsa.org/.

Huntington's disease causes progressive disability. The disorder is usually fatal within 15 to 20 years. The cause of death is often infection, although suicide is also common. It is important to realize that not all patients with Huntington's Disease progress at the same pace and are equally affected. The number of repeats may determine severity. People with few repeats may have mild abnormal movements later in life and slow disease progression, whereas those with many repeats may be severely affected at a young age.

• loss of ability to care for self
• loss of ability to interact
• injuries to self or others
• increased risk of infections
• depression

Call your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop. Sudden change in mental status may indicate development of a different disorder.

Review Date: 07/28/2005
Reviewed By: Kevin Sheth, M.D., Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.