A recent review summarizes the scientific literature on behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of Huntington’s disease, noting that plenty of research is still needed to better understand and treat such symptoms, which traditionally have taken second stage to the disease’s movement problems.
The review, “Changes in mental state and behaviour in Huntington’s disease,” published in the journal The Lancet Psychiatry, noted that behavioral and psychiatric symptoms are often the most burdensome for patients and their families, and highlighted research initiatives needed for a fuller understanding of the complex condition that is Huntington’s.
Researchers at the BSMHFT National Centre for Mental Health in Birmingham, U.K., underscored that assessing psychiatric problems in Huntington’s disease can be difficult as the symptoms do not always fit diagnostic criteria. Also, some symptoms may not be evident to the patients themselves, but can be very stressful for family and caretakers.
You can read the full article, by Magdalena Kegeby on Huntington Disease News here.