Huntington's Disease and Other Choreas

Huntington’s disease is best known for causing irregular and uncontrollable movements of the arms, legs, and face, known as chorea. Huntington’s also causes psychiatric symptoms and cognitive disabilities. Other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, diabetes, and stroke, can also cause chorea. The Mount Sinai Health System has extensive experience diagnosing and treating these conditions.

The first signs of Huntington’s disease and other genetic choreas are usually mild fidgetiness and clumsiness, as well as forgetfulness, difficulty thinking, and depression. Involuntary movements develop gradually and worsen over time. Other symptoms of Huntington’s disease and the other choreas often include poor balance and coordination resulting in falls, bone fractures, and head injuries.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Huntington’s Disease

Huntington’s disease is genetic, and can be passed on from parent to child. At Mount Sinai, our skilled care team diagnoses Huntington’s with a genetic test using a blood sample. We also provide genetic counseling and coordinate visits with other specialists.

Our goal for treatment is to reduce the severity of symptoms and overall disability you experience, and to provide the care and support that will help lessen the condition’s impact on you and your family.