Huntington's Disease

Huntington's disease is a relatively rare genetically caused condition that produces abnormal movements and behaviors.

It results because of a genetic mutation, and thus is inherited from affected parents.

The disease begins insidiously usually in the 40's but often earlier, and starts by producing psychiatric symptoms such as depression or psychosis.  Bizarre and inappropriate behavior may be observed.

Soon after, abnormal movements occur.  These movements are called chorea which means "to dance", as they appear as quick prancing movements such as the kind seen in a Thai dance.

The disease is relentlessly progressive and leads to dementia and death in about 10 years.

The condition is caused by loss of acetylcholine-containing neurons in an area of the brain called the striatum.