Summary

• Huntington's disease is an inherited condition that affects the nervous system.
• Huntington's disease is caused by a faulty gene that someone is born with.
• The most identifiable physical symptom is called chorea — rapid, involuntary movements of the fingers, limbs or facial muscles.
• Other cognitive and emotional symptoms include impulsiveness and difficulty communicating.
• There is currently no cure or effective treatment for Huntington's disease.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 24 Feb 2024). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about Huntington's disease.

Relevant tests

Genetic testing is used when a person shows symptoms of Huntington’s disease or is at risk due to their family history.

Predictive testing is available for healthy individuals with a family history who want to know if they carry the gene, and prenatal testing is available for couples with a family history of Huntington’s Disease and are concerned about passing the disorder on to their child.

Each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the faulty gene.