Huntington's Disease.

Question 1

Age of onset

Answer 1

30-50

juvenile- onset before 20

Question 2

Prevalence

Answer 2

Both sexes are affected.

Question 3

Progression

Answer 3

HD is a progressive disease with no cure.
HD has a typical progression of 10-25 years.
Progression tends to be faster in juvenille HD.
Progression split into 5 stages:
1. Early
2. Early Intermediate
3. Late intermediate
4. Early advanced
5. Advanved.

Question 4

Cause

Answer 4

HD is caused by a defective gene.
If a parent has it they have 50/50 chance.
Faulty gene on chromosome 4 produces a mutated form of the protein called huntingtin causing neurons to die.

Question 5

Symptoms

Answer 5

Symptoms gradually worsen.
Concentration difficulties.
Poor memory.
Depression.
Incoordination.
Involuntary Movements.
Mood swings.
Changes in personality.
Difficulty swallowing, speaking, breathing.

Question 6

Common Type of Dysarthria.

Answer 6

Hyperkinetic.

Question 7

SLT input

Answer 7

• difficulty swallowing
• dysarthria
• AAC may be suitable

Question 8

Additional barriers to communication.

Answer 8

• decline in cognition
• decline in language skills
• Involuntary Movements