Brain & Nervous System Health Center
Huntington's Disease Genetic Test - What is Huntington's Disease?
Huntington's disease is a rare condition that causes parts of the brain to break down, or degenerate. It is also called Huntington's chorea. The disease causes rapid, jerky body movements and the loss of normal mental abilities (dementia). The disease can cause personality changes, behavior problems, and memory loss. Symptoms of the disease usually develop after age 40. There is no known cure for the disease. Treatment with medicines may help control the involuntary movements and behavior changes.
Huntington's disease is caused by a changed, or mutated, gene. If you have a parent with the disease, you have a 50% chance of getting the changed gene and the disease. But there is no way to know when you will develop Huntington's disease. Some people may pass on the changed gene to a child before knowing that they have the changed gene.
A blood test can show whether you have the changed gene. You may want to have genetic counseling if you are thinking of having the test. Genetic counselors are experts who can explain what the test means, tell you the benefits and risks of the test, and answer your questions. But you make the decision about whether to have the test.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Huntington's Disease Genetic Test Topics
Important Safety Information
Vimpat (lacosamide) is a medicine that is used with other medicines to treat partial onset seizures in patients 17 years of age and older with epilepsy. Vimpat is generally well-tolerated, but may not be for everyone. Ask your doctor if Vimpat is right for you. Antiepileptic drugs, including Vimpat, may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self harm that you have never had before or may be worse than before. Please see additional patient information in the Medication Guide at the end of the full prescribing information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your condition or your treatment. Please see additional Patient Safety Information

