Huntingtons

Huntingtons is a plural form referring to several subjects that bear the name Huntington. In common usage, the term most often denotes Huntington's disease, a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder named after American physician George Huntington. The broader name may also refer to people who carry the Huntington surname or to geographic locations and institutions bearing the name Huntington.

Huntington's disease is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene on chromosome 4, typically involving an expanded cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) repeat. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, giving each child of an affected person a 50 percent chance of inheriting the mutation. The disease is characterized by a triad of symptoms: motor disturbances (notably chorea and impaired coordination), cognitive decline (executive dysfunction, memory impairment), and psychiatric or behavioral changes (depression, irritability, apathy). Onset commonly occurs in middle adulthood, though juvenile forms appear earlier. Diagnosis is based on clinical features and family history and is confirmed by genetic testing detecting the HTT expansion. There is no cure; management is multidisciplinary and supportive, focusing on control of movement symptoms with medications, management of psychiatric symptoms, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, and caregiver support. Genetic counseling is advised due to the autosomal dominant inheritance.

Huntingtons may also refer to individuals bearing the Huntington surname or to places and institutions named Huntington, such as towns or neighborhoods in various countries. See also Huntington (disambiguation) for other uses.