About Benign hereditary chorea

What is Benign hereditary chorea?

Benign hereditary chorea is a rare, inherited neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, rapid, jerky movements of the arms, legs, and face. It is caused by a genetic mutation and is usually seen in children between the ages of 3 and 10. Symptoms usually improve with age, and the disorder is not life-threatening.

What are the symptoms of Benign hereditary chorea?

The symptoms of Benign hereditary chorea include:

-Involuntary, jerky movements of the face, arms, and legs
-Difficulty speaking
-Difficulty swallowing
-Difficulty walking
-Muscle weakness
-Loss of coordination
-Mood swings
-Depression
-Anxiety
-Fatigue
-Memory problems
-Difficulty concentrating

What are the causes of Benign hereditary chorea?

Benign hereditary chorea is a rare neurological disorder that is caused by a genetic mutation. The exact cause of the mutation is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Some of the known genetic causes of Benign hereditary chorea include mutations in the SLC2A1 gene, which is responsible for the production of the enzyme glucose transporter 1, and mutations in the PRRT2 gene, which is responsible for the production of the enzyme proline-rich transmembrane protein 2. Other potential causes of Benign hereditary chorea include exposure to certain toxins, such as lead, and infections, such as Lyme disease.

What are the treatments for Benign hereditary chorea?

1. Medication: Medications such as haloperidol, tetrabenazine, and clonazepam can be used to reduce the severity of the symptoms.

2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve coordination and balance.

3. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy can help with activities of daily living and help improve coordination and balance.

4. Speech Therapy: Speech therapy can help improve communication skills.

5. Diet and Nutrition: Eating a healthy diet and getting adequate nutrition can help reduce the severity of symptoms.

6. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy can help with managing stress and anxiety.

What are the risk factors for Benign hereditary chorea?

The risk factors for Benign hereditary chorea include:

1. Family history of the disorder
2. Female gender
3. Age of onset between 5 and 15 years
4. Presence of other neurological symptoms such as seizures, ataxia, and/or mental retardation
5. Genetic mutations in the PRRT2 gene
6. Exposure to certain environmental toxins or infections.

Is there a cure/medications for Benign hereditary chorea?

There is no cure for Benign Hereditary Chorea, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These medications include anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, and anticonvulsants. Additionally, physical and occupational therapy can help improve coordination and balance.