Huntington's Disease Research Paper
Huntington’s Disease Garry Estrada
University of Phoenix PSYCH/575
February 6, 2011
Rex Philpot, Ph.D.
Huntington’s Disease The human body in its ability to function properly is comprised of the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system, and the autonomic nervous system, which is a “branch of the peripheral nervous system” (Carlson, 2010, p. 97). The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system make up the primary controls that command all physical movements. The neurons of the central nervous system affect consciousness and mental activity, which include skeletal muscles and bodily organs (health-care.net, 2005).
Neurological disorders are disorders that affect the central, …show more content…
It is also important to know if there are biological and environmental factors that implicate the onset of this disease as well as any cognitive and pharmacological therapies used to reduce the symptoms or slow the progress of HD.
HD is diagnosed via a physical and neurological examination. Blood tests can screen for the genetic abnormality. Everyone who carries the gene will eventually develop HD.
The Neurological Basis of Huntington’s Disease
An American physician noted huntington’s disease named, George Huntington, in 1872. HD is a universal disease found in every country in the world. HD is also a family disease passed from parent to child through a mutation in the normal gene. HD is a progressive disorder that involves degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. A single abnormal gene produces HD. Genes are made up of DNA molecule, …show more content…
These cases are thought to be genetic mutation that occurs during sperm development (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2010).
Prognosis and Cognitive and Pharmacological Therapies
An important point to note, currently, there is no cure for HD. Unfortunately, there is no known therapy to stop the progress of HD. Those inflicted with HD will eventually become totally dependent on others for their care. Entire families are profoundly affected, emotionally, socially, and economically.
With the advances in scientific research, there are therapies that can slow the progress down. Medications may vary depending on the symptoms. Dopamine (a neurotransmitter) blockers such as haloperidol or phenothiazine may reduce abnormal behavior and movements. Medications such as Tetrabenazine and Amantadine are used to control extra movements. Some research reveals that Co-Enzyme0 Q10 may actually decrease the progress of HD. Many other drugs are used that treat the symptoms of HD and new drugs are coming out every day, but current research has not come up with a cure.
Because the variety of drugs used are dependent on the symptoms, the side effects will vary accordingly.
University of Phoenix PSYCH/575
February 6, 2011
Rex Philpot, Ph.D.
Huntington’s Disease The human body in its ability to function properly is comprised of the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system, and the autonomic nervous system, which is a “branch of the peripheral nervous system” (Carlson, 2010, p. 97). The central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system make up the primary controls that command all physical movements. The neurons of the central nervous system affect consciousness and mental activity, which include skeletal muscles and bodily organs (health-care.net, 2005).
Neurological disorders are disorders that affect the central, …show more content…
It is also important to know if there are biological and environmental factors that implicate the onset of this disease as well as any cognitive and pharmacological therapies used to reduce the symptoms or slow the progress of HD.
HD is diagnosed via a physical and neurological examination. Blood tests can screen for the genetic abnormality. Everyone who carries the gene will eventually develop HD.
The Neurological Basis of Huntington’s Disease
An American physician noted huntington’s disease named, George Huntington, in 1872. HD is a universal disease found in every country in the world. HD is also a family disease passed from parent to child through a mutation in the normal gene. HD is a progressive disorder that involves degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. A single abnormal gene produces HD. Genes are made up of DNA molecule, …show more content…
These cases are thought to be genetic mutation that occurs during sperm development (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, 2010).
Prognosis and Cognitive and Pharmacological Therapies
An important point to note, currently, there is no cure for HD. Unfortunately, there is no known therapy to stop the progress of HD. Those inflicted with HD will eventually become totally dependent on others for their care. Entire families are profoundly affected, emotionally, socially, and economically.
With the advances in scientific research, there are therapies that can slow the progress down. Medications may vary depending on the symptoms. Dopamine (a neurotransmitter) blockers such as haloperidol or phenothiazine may reduce abnormal behavior and movements. Medications such as Tetrabenazine and Amantadine are used to control extra movements. Some research reveals that Co-Enzyme0 Q10 may actually decrease the progress of HD. Many other drugs are used that treat the symptoms of HD and new drugs are coming out every day, but current research has not come up with a cure.
Because the variety of drugs used are dependent on the symptoms, the side effects will vary accordingly.