Huntington's Disease - Stages and Therapies

Explore the diagnosis, stages, and treatment of Huntington's disease in this comprehensive lecture by Dr. Veronica Santini, Clinical Instructor at Stanford University Medical Center. Delve into the historical perspectives, current understanding, and epidemiology of this rare genetic disorder that causes programmed degeneration of brain cells. Learn about the "prodromal" stage, early motor signs, cognitive changes, and other early symptoms. Examine the progression of motor symptoms, general treatment principles, and multidisciplinary care approaches. Discover combination therapies and medications for chorea, mood, and cognition. Gain insights into end-of-life issues and caregiving in Huntington's disease. This talk, presented by the Stanford Huntington's Disease and Ataxia Clinic, a Center of Excellence recognized by the Huntington's Disease Society of America, reflects the high treatment standards offered at Stanford.

Intro
Historical Perspectives
Current Understanding
Epidemiology
"Prodromal" Stage
Early Motor Signs of HD
EARLY COGNITIVE CHANGES
Other Early Symptoms of HD
Progression of Motor Symptoms
General Treatment Principles
CARE IS MULTIDISCIPLINARY
Combination Therapies
MEDICATIONS FOR CHOREA
MEDICATIONS FOR MOOD
MEDICATIONS FOR COGNITION
DONEPEZIL: NO IMPROVEMENT
End of Life Issues
Caregiving in HD