Huntington's Disease FINAL

Question 1

Huntington’s disease is a chronic, terminal/fatal disease w/no cure.

This disease has an imbalance of

Answer 1

dopamine, GABA, and glutamate from the basal ganglia.

Question 2

Risk factors for Huntington’s disease

Answer 2

genetics, Caucasian, 30-50yo (male or female)

Question 3

The earlier the sx associated with Huntington’s disease present; the more severe the disease is. Death will be sooner.

True or false

Answer 3

True

Question 4

How quickly can juvenile sx cause death in HD?

Answer 4

within 10 years

Question 5

Sx of Huntington’s disease

Answer 5

-progressive dementia, personality changes, mood swings, depression
-slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, weight loss
-Choreiform movements (uncontrolled, rapid movements/unsteady gait when sitting still)

Question 6

Diagnostic testing for Huntington’s disease

Answer 6

Genetic testing
CT for frontal horn enlargement
MRI
and PET scan

Question 7

Is there any neuroprotective/neurorestorative treatment available for Huntington’s disease?

Answer 7

No. Only supportive and symptomatic treatments.

Question 8

Medications used for Huntington’s disease

Answer 8

-Tetrabenazine to suppress involuntary chorea movements. S/E include new or worsening depression, drowsiness, nausea, restlessness
-Other antipsychotics for psych sx

Question 9

Possible complications for HD pts & nursing care

Answer 9

Complications: Decisional conflict r/t having children, aspiration pneumonia, altered cognition and mobility

Nursing care: Suicide prevention, encourage planning for residential and EOL care