Patient #6

Noah Martin, Carter Pike

Patient #6 (35 y/o Female)

Susan, a 35-year-old teacher, has been referred to you from a psychologist who works in your
building. She was being treated for depression and mild mood swings, but now that she has
started having physical symptoms, the psychologist thinks she needs a neurology consult.
Obviously nervous, Susan says, “You might think I am crazy, but sometimes my hands and feet
just seem to move on their own, kind of like they are dancing.” She goes on to say that she
remembers her mother experiencing the same thing a few weeks before she died. Sadly, her
mother was killed in a car crash before the doctors could ever explore her symptoms. Other than
the limb movement, Susan has noticed that she seems to be forgetting little details at work. She
has a few bruises on her legs. When asked about them, she tells you that she has been a bit
clumsy lately and seems to fall down more than she used to.
Susan’s Symptoms

● Twitching and spasms of the hands and feet

● Loss of balance/control
● Condition possibly hereditary
● Mood swings
● Depression
● Nervousness
● Forgetfulness
Diagnosis:

Huntington’s Disease:

A fatal genetic disorder that causes the

progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.
It deteriorates a person's physical and mental
abilities during their prime working years and has
no cure.

A Neurologist and a Physical Therapist can both

help with this disease
Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease

- Amnesia, lack of concentration, confusion, delusion

- Involuntary movements, coordination issues, muscle spasms, difficulty walking
- Compulsive or irritable behavior
- Depression, hallucinations, paranoia
- Anxiety, apathy, mood swings
- Typically occurs in 30s-40s
Prognosis

● No cure exists, but drugs, physical therapy, and talk therapy can help manage some
symptoms
● Tetrabenazine (Xenazine) is specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration to
suppress the involuntary jerking and writhing movements
● Progressive neurological disorder that is genetic
● Physical and mental abilities degraded
● Typically shows up in your 30s and 40s and can last between 10 to 25 years
● Unfortunately the disease will kill you
● Any kids you have will have a 50/50 chance of having the disease