Huntington’s Disease is a rare, inherited neurological disorder that damages the brain cells and causes a wide impact on a person’s physical and mental abilities. It is an inherited disease that happens due to a mutation in the gene that codes for a protein called ‘Huntington.’ The defective Huntington protein causes changes in the brain, leading to loss of cognitive thinking, uncontrolled movement, emotional disturbances, and other psychiatric disorders.
The symptoms of this disease can develop at any time. Medications are used to help manage certain symptoms, however, there is no cure to prevent the mental and physical decline caused by this disease.
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Following are some of the most commonly observed symptoms of Huntington’s Disease;
The diagnosis of Huntington’s disease begins with a review of your family history. If your healthcare provider suspects any symptoms of Huntington’s disease, they may test your muscle movement, reflexes, balance, reasoning, mental agility, etc. Your doctor may also order the following tests to make an accurate diagnosis:
Huntington’s disease is an inherited disorder and currently, there is no cure or treatment to slow down or stop the progression. According to research, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) , which is used to treat Parkinson’s Disease, may also be effective for the treatment of Huntington’s disease. However, studies to find an effective treatment for this disorder are still in progress.
At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery, we offer an integrated and holistic approach to your care. Our doctor, Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe — a board-certified Neurosurgeon — has extensive experience working with patients affected by Huntington’s disease and other neurological disorders such as Dystonia and Hydrocephalus. She looks into the patient’s medical history and develops a patient-focused treatment plan.
Advanced diagnostic methods
State-of-the-art technology
Minimal Invasive Surgery
Recovery with less downtime
Patient-centered approach
Outstanding patient care
For more information call us at 213-369-4583 or visit our office in Los Angeles today!
Huntington’s disease is caused by a single gene mutation on chromosome No.4. The person who inherits the gene will eventually develop this disorder.
If the condition develops before age 20, it is called Juvenile or Early-onset Huntington disease. However, they often appear when people are in their 30s or 40s, known as Adult-onset Huntington’s disease.
The life expectancy of Huntington’s disease varies in different patients. If you have been diagnosed in middle age, you may live for up to 30 years after symptoms develop. However, if it is diagnosed in the early stage, the life expectancy can be less than 10 years.
No. Huntington’s disorder is passed on by a dominant gene. So if your parents don’t have this disease, you won’t either.
Various studies and clinical trials are in progress to find a cure for Huntington’s disorder. So, we may have a cure or treatment in the coming years.