A longitudinal study of the progression of Huntington's disease and oropharyngeal dysphagia: A four-case follow-up

ABSTRACT Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, with dysphagia being a common symptom of the disease. Few studies established a relationship between neuromotor impairment and dysphagia. There is also a lack of described therapeutic approaches for dysphagia in HD. This study aimed to better understand the progression of neurological clinical aspects, instrumental swallowing and dysphagia management in four patients presented with HD in an outpatient follow-up setting. The longitudinal follow-up period was 36 to 43 months through neuroclinical assessments (Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale) and fiberoptic endoscopic swallowing evaluations. Case 1 - a moderate decline of independence with safe swallowing. Case 2 - a moderate motor impairment, safe swallowing and moderate dysphagia during follow-up. Case 3 - a longer disease duration and increased motor impairment associated with moderate/severe dysphagia. Case 4 - a longer disease duration, need of assistance to perform daily activities, severe dysphagia and palliative care, considering the family decision of exclusive oral feeding. This longitudinal study revealed that the progression of neuromotor damage was not directly related to dysphagia development. This case series demonstrates the importance of follow-up settings with instrumental swallowing evaluations and careful consideration of early palliative care for HD patients.

Biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en la enfermedad de Huntington y otros desórdenes neurológicos: estudio comparativo

Fundamento: los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo en la enfermedad de Huntington pudieran predecir el curso de la enfermedad y evaluar nuevos tratamientos, pero su naturaleza inespecífica parece impedir la identificación de algún marcador útil. Esclarecer similitudes y diferencias de este fenómeno y su comportamiento con características clínicas puede ser esencial. Objetivo comparar biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo entre pacientes con enfermedad de Huntington y con otros desórdenes neurológicos. Métodos se realizó un estudio analítico, retrospectivo y caso-control (enfermedad de Huntington esclerosis lateral amiotrófica, ataxia espinocerebelosa tipo 2 e ictus isquémico: en etapa aguda y crónica). Se recogieron variables demográficas, clínicas y marcadores de daño oxidativo (malonildialdehído, productos avanzados de oxidación a proteínas) y antioxidantes (superóxido dismutasa: catalasa: glutatión peroxidasa, capacidad antioxidante del plasma). Resultados hubo diferencias significativas del malonildialdehído en la enfermedad de Huntington respecto al control (p=0,02), pero no con el resto de los grupos. La enzima superóxido dismutasa en enfermedad de Huntington fue menor estadísticamente en comparación con esclerosis lateral amiotrófica, aunque para la catalasa fue superior en relación con el resto de los pacientes. El FRAP en enfermedad de Huntington resultó menor significativamente versus esclerosis lateral amiotrófica e ictus isquémico agudo. Los productos avanzados de la oxidación de proteína se correlacionaron directamente con las edades biológicas y de inicio de la enfermedad de Huntington. La actividad motora en la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica y el déficit neurológico en el ictus isquémico agudo se correlacionaron con el malonildialdehído y glutatión peroxidasa respectivamente. Conclusiones la enfermedad de Huntington parece mostrar características específicas en su sistema antioxidante. La oxidación de proteínas pudiera estar relacionada con la acumulación de huntingtina mutada en el tiempo.

Foundation: biomarkers of oxidative stress in Huntington's disease could predict the course of the disease and evaluate new treatments, but their nonspecific nature seems to prevent the identification of any useful marker. Clarifying similarities and differences of this phenomenon and its behavior with clinical characteristics may be essential. Objective: compare biomarkers of oxidative stress between patients with Huntington's disease and other neurological disorders. Methods: an analytical, retrospective and case-control study was carried out (Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 and ischemic stroke: acute and chronic stage). Demographic and clinical variables and markers of oxidative damage (malonildialdehyde, advanced protein oxidation products) and antioxidants (superoxide dismutase: catalase: glutathione peroxidase, plasma antioxidant capacity) were collected. Results: there were significant differences in malonyldialdehyde in Huntington's disease compared to the control (p=0.02), but not with the rest of the groups. The enzyme superoxide dismutase in Huntington's disease was statistically lower compared to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, although for catalase it was higher in relation to the rest of the patients. FRAP in Huntington's disease was significantly lower versus amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and acute ischemic stroke. Advanced products of protein oxidation were directly correlated with the biological and onset ages of Huntington's disease. Motor activity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and neurological deficit in acute ischemic stroke were correlated with malonyldialdehyde and glutathione peroxidase, respectively. Conclusions: huntington's disease seems to show specific characteristics in its antioxidant system. Protein oxidation could be related to the accumulation of mutated huntingtin over time.

"I don't have Huntington's disease": the boundaries between acceptance and understanding / "Eu não tenho doença de Huntington": os limites entre aceitação e compreensão

Abstract Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited disease that leads to an inexorable progression of motor, cognitive and psychiatric disturbances. In the initial stages, the symptoms are not clearly disabling, and the patient may present a lack of awareness about the symptoms themselves, which we call anosognosia. However, anosognosia might not justify all passivity of the HD patient in face of the diagnosis. Patients may also experience the denial of illness, as a stage of grief, expected to happen in the face of the diagnosis of any neurodegenerative disorder. In addition, people with HD tend to be more apathetic, and more silent, in regular consultations. In the present article, the authors express a point of view, discussing the behavior of the HD patient, in which there is a multifactorial passivity, in the face of the diagnosis and of the disease itself. Having the proper knowledge of this situation may prepare the neurologist to better understand the patient and the evolution of the disease.

Resumo A doença de Huntington (DH) é uma doença hereditária que leva a uma progressão inexorável de distúrbios motores, cognitivos e psiquiátricos. Nos estágios iniciais, os sintomas não são claramente incapacitantes e há uma falta de consciência sobre os próprios sintomas, o que chamamos de anosognosia. No entanto, anosognosia pode não justificar toda a passividade do paciente de HD diante do diagnóstico. Os pacientes também podem vivenciar a negação da doença, como um estágio de luto, o que é esperado acontecer diante do diagnóstico de qualquer doença neurodegenerativa. Além disso, as pessoas com DH tendem a ficar mais apáticas, mais silenciosas, nas consultas regulares. No presente artigo, os autores expressam um ponto de vista, discutindo acerca do comportamento do paciente com DH, em que há uma passividade multifatorial, frente ao diagnóstico e diante da doença em si. Ter conhecimento sobre essa situação pode preparar o neurologista para entender melhor o paciente e a evolução da doença.

Huntington juvenil y fenocopia intrafamiliar a propósito de dos casos / Juvenile Huntington and intrafamily phenocopy, about two cases

RESUMEN La enfermedad de Huntington (EH) es una enfermedad neurodegenerativa hereditaria de progresión irremediablemente fatal. Existen otros trastornos con síntomas semejantes a los de esta enfermedad y que son llamados fenocopias. En nuestro reporte, se presentan los casos de dos hermanos con fenotipo compatible con EH, uno ellos con una fenocopia intrafamiliar, caracterizada por un síndrome coreico y cambios del comportamiento, con estudio genético negativo para EH. El caso índice cursa con una forma parkinsoniana de EH de inicio juvenil, con evolución lentamente progresiva que, además, presenta síntomas neuropsiquiátricos, con respuesta mínima a tratamiento sintomático con psicofármacos. El hermano mayor, caso de fenocopia intrafamiliar, cursó con movimientos discinéticos cervicofaciales y faciales severos, psicosis y cognición conservada. En conclusión, las fenocopias de EH pueden presentarse incluso dentro de una familia con EH genéticamente confirmada. Se recomienda una detallada evaluación neurológica y un estudio genético apropiado en todos los casos en que se tenga sospecha clínica de EH, incluso en familiares directos de pacientes diagnosticados con la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder with an always fatal outcome. Other disorders resemble the symptoms of this disease and are called phenocopies. The cases of two brothers in a family affected with a phenotype compatible with HD, are presented, one of them an intrafamilial phenocopy, characterized by choreic syndrome, abnormal behavior, and negative HD genetic testing. The index case evolves with a juvenile-onset slowly progressive parkinsonian form of HD that, in addition, presents neuropsychiatric symptoms with minimal response to symptomatic treatment with dopamine antagonists. The older brother, the intrafamilial phenocopy, experienced severe facial cervicofacial and cervical dyskinetic movements, psychosis, and preserved cognition. In conclusion, the HD phenocopies might occur even within a known, genetically confirmed HD family. It is recommended to perform a detailed neurological examination together with appropriate genetic testing in all cases with clinical suspicious of HD, including direct family members of HD affected individuals.

De novo Huntington′s disease due to paternal intermediate alleles: a case report and literature review / 中华神经科杂志

Objective:To report the clinical manifestation and genetic characteristics of a case of de novo Huntington′s disease due to paternal intermediate alleles. Methods:Clinical data and imaging features of a middle-aged female, who complained of unstable walking without positive family history and was admitted to Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University on September 20, 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. The serum samples of the patient and her parents were used to screen HTT gene dynamic mutation in accordance with the principle of informed consent and voluntary. And the relevant literatures were reviewed. Results:This is a 38-year-old female with progressive course, who presented as ataxia, involuntary movement at the end of extremities, dystonia, and cognitive impairment. Imaging results showed atrophy of bilateral caudate nuclei, as well as decreased glucose metabolism of bilateral caudate nuclei, putamen and partial cortex. Genetic testing showed the abnormal expansion of polymorphic trinucleotide (CAG) repeats in HTT gene and confirmed the diagnosis of Huntington′s disease. The CAG repeat length of the patient was 17/47 (pathopoiesis), of the father was 17/35 (intermediate alleles), and of the mother was 17/17 (normal). Conclusions:Paternal intermediate alleles may cause the first case of Huntington′s disease in a family. Importantly, HTT gene screening should be performed for the patient and parents when the diagnosis of Huntington′s disease is clinically possible despite negative family history, to prevent the misdiagnosis.

Huntington, la enfermedad que transforma todo a su paso: Narrativas de cuidadoras familiares de la costa Caribe colombiana / Huntington, the disease that transforms everything in its path: Narratives of family caregivers from the Colombian Caribbean coast

Resumen Este estudio cualitativo pretende explorar las transformaciones experimentadas a nivel emocional, físico y social por cuidadoras familiares de pacientes con enfermedad de Huntington en la costa Caribe de Colombia. Las participantes se seleccionaron de la base de datos de la Fundación Factor H, lográndose un punto de saturación teórica con 10 historias de vida narradas desde la voz del cuidador y recolectadas entre agosto de 2020 y mayo de 2021. La guía de preguntas se refinó mediante panel de expertos y se empleó bajo el consentimiento de las participantes. La categoría central "Huntington, la enfermedad que transforma todo a su paso" se desagregó a partir de tres subcategorías: "Transforma mi mundo", "Transforma mi corazón y mi alma" y "Transforma mi cuerpo"; a partir de las cuales se obtuvo que el cuidado es ejercido en su totalidad por mujeres, quienes experimentaron pérdidas en diferentes esferas: educativo, social, laboral, afectivo con fuertes impactos en su salud física, emocional y, por ende, en su vida cotidiana. Se concluye que la enfermedad de Huntington está permeada por señales adversas para el paciente, su cuidador y la familia; de ahí la necesidad de centrar esfuerzos colectivos para su abordaje integral.

Abstract Qualitative study to explore the transformations experienced at an emotional, physical, and social level by family caregivers of patients with Huntington's disease on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Participants were selected from the Factor H Foundation database, obtaining a theoretical saturation point with 10 life stories telling from the caregiver's voice, gathered between August 2020 and May 2021. The driving question was refined by a panel of experts and was used with the consent of the participants. The main category, "Huntington, the disease that transforms everything in its path," was divided into three subcategories: "Transforms my world," "Transforms my heart and soul," and "Transforms my body." These subcategories unveiled that caregivers are mostly women who experienced losses in different aspects of their lives: educational, social, work, affective with strong impacts on their physical and emotional health, and, therefore, in their daily life. It is concluded that Huntington's disease has adverse signals for the patient, their caregiver and the family; hence the need to focus collective efforts for its comprehensive approach.

A Case of Paediatric Non-union of Tibia Treated With Tibialization of Fibula

Management of non-union with bone gap in tibia is difficult, especially if superimposed by infection of bone. Various modalities have been described for the treatment of gap non-union, with their own advantages and disadvantages. A case of a paediatric patient with traumatic left tibia fracture which was complicated by subsequent osteomyelitis and non-union presented to tertiary care hospital. After failure of different modalities of treatment, to provide union, the patient was managed with tibialization of fibula with fibula strut graft supported by a rush nail

Características gerais da doença de Huntington e os desafios com a vida cotidiana: uma revisão da literatura / General characteristics of Huntington's disease and the challenges with everyday life: a literature review

Objetivos: Apresentar as características gerais da DH e os principais desafios encarados no cotidiano pelos portadores. Método: foi realizada uma revisão de literatura na qual foram considerados artigos científicos embasados em banco de dados (PubMed, Scielo, Lilacs e diretório Google Acadêmico), artigos entre anos de 2007 a 2022, publicados em todos os idiomas, e aplicados os seguintes descritores: Huntington's Disease Treatment; Genetics foram incluídos. Resultado: após a inclusão de 21 artigos utilizados, foi observado a significância de elevado índice mundial da DH, que acomete população em geral, porém há probabilidade que seja mais de herança paterna do que materna, devido à formação dos espermatozoides, principalmente quando se manifestam na fase juvenil de forma acelerada. Embora sejam desvendadas alternativas para terapia paliativa medicamentosa, há, também, a terapia física, o que auxilia a possibilidade de evolução na saúde desses indivíduos. Porém, prosseguem as pesquisas relacionadas às condutas melhores na qualidade de vida dessa população. Conclusão: Esta revisão evidencia a importância para doenças neurodegenerativas pouco vistas e comentadas, como a DH, mas que carece de esclarecimentos que auxiliem, com eficácia, tanto na recuperação, como no processo de habilidades da existência desses portadores com DH.

Objectives: to present the general characteristics of HD and the main challenges faced in daily life by patients. Method: a literature review was conducted in which scientific articles were considered based on databases (PubMed, Scielo, Lilacs, and Google Scholar directory), articles between 2007 and 2022, published in all languages, and the following descriptors were applied: Huntington's Disease Treatment; Genetics were included. Result: after the inclusion of 21 articles, it was observed the significance of the high worldwide HD index, which affects the general population, but there is a probability that it is more paternal than maternal inheritance due to sperm formation, especially when they manifest in the juvenile phase in an accelerated manner. Although alternatives for palliative drug therapy are unveiled, there is also physical therapy, which helps the possibility of evolution in the health of these individuals. However, the researches related to the best conducts in the quality of life of this population continue. Conclusion: this review highlights the importance of little-seen and commented neurodegenerative diseases, such as HD, but that lacks clarification that effectively assists, both in recovery and in the process of abilities of the existence of these patients with HD.

Juvenile Huntington's disease in northern Brazil: a case series report / Doença de Huntington juvenil no norte do Brasil: relato de uma série de casos

Introduction: Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by CAG expansion repeats in the HTT gene. Usually, the symptoms start to manifest in mid-adulthood. In about 5% of cases, however, the signs begin before the age of 20 years. These cases are known as juvenile HD (JHD). Objective: here we report a case series of JHD from Amazonas, a state where data are scarce due to the restricted access to specialized medical assistance for diagnosis and care. Case series: the patients were attended by neurologists specialized in movement disorders at Manaus. Two cases manifested the disease in childhood (6 and 7 years old) and two cases, in adolescence (12 and 16 years old). All cases showed dystonia and parkinsonism as predominant motor disorders. Moreover, signs of cognitive decline, depression, and psychosis were observed in all patients. Conversely, cerebellar signs, gait disturbances, seizures, and some psychiatric symptoms were variable among the cases. Expansion size varied from 66 to 84 to CAG repeats and the difference in age at onset between parent and child varied from 23 to 43 years. Conclusion: to our knowledge, these are the first clinical reports of JHD in northern Brazil. These cases illustrate the variability in clinical phenotypes and genetic features of JHD cases. Furthermore, they can contribute to the awareness of HD here, both by professionals and the public in general.

Introdução: a doença de Huntington (DH) é um distúrbio neurodegenerativo causado pela expansão de repetições CAG no gene HTT. Geralmente, os sintomas começam a se manifestar na vida adulta tardia. Em cerca de 5% dos casos, no entanto, os sinais começam antes da idade de 20 anos. Esses casos são conhecidos como DH juvenil (DHJ). Objetivo: neste estudo, nós reportamos uma série de casos de DHJ do Amazonas, um estado onde os dados ainda são escassos devido ao acesso restrito à assistência médica especializada para o diagnóstico e cuidado. Série de casos: os pacientes foram atendidos por neurologistas especializados em transtornos do movimento em Manaus. Dois casos manifestaram a doença na infância (6 e 7 anos) e dois casos, na adolescência (12 e 16 anos). Todos os casos apresentaram distonia e parkinsonismo como sintomas motores predominantes. Sinais de declínio cognitivo, depressão e psicose também foram observados em todos os pacientes. Por outro lado, sinais cerebelares, distúrbios da marcha, convulsões e alguns sintomas psiquiátricos foram variáveis entre os casos. O tamanho da expansão CAG variou de 66 a 84 repetições e a diferença na idade de início dos sintomas entre pais e filhos variou de 23 a 43 anos. Conclusão: ao nosso conhecimento, estes são os primeiros relatos clínicos da DHJ na região Norte. Esses casos ilustram a variabilidade nos fenótipos clínicos e nas características genéticas dos casos de DHJ. Além disso, eles podem contribuir para a conscientização da DH na região, tanto pelos profissionais quanto pelo público geral.

Enfermedad de Huntington en población panameña, 2007-2021

Introducción: La enfermedad de Huntington (EH) es un desorden neurodegenerativo autosómico dominante caracterizado por disfunción progresiva motora, cognitiva y psiquiátrica1. No se conoce la prevalencia de EH en Centro América (2-11). En Panamá no se han reportado estudios sobre esta Enfermedad. El objetivo es estimar la prevalencia de EH en población panameña. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de casos con EH entre 2007 y 2021 en un hospital de tercer nivel. Se incluyeron individuos panameños, mayores de 15 años, un caso por familia, con cuadro clínico sugestivo, con o sin antecedentes familiares, resonancia magnética cerebral y prueba genética HTT positiva. Estos casos fueron incluidos en el Registro Nacional de Enfermedad de Huntington. Resultados: Presentamos 11 casos índice, 6 femeninos.  Se estima una prevalencia de 0.25 x 100000 habitantes, edad promedio 40 años (rango 23-63), media 43±12.4, la edad de inicio 29 años (rango 14-43), media 27±11.13, presentación juvenil 3 casos. Se detectaron 91 sintomáticos de 185 familiares, transmisión predominante paterna, todos heterocigóticos. Alelo normal entre 13-23 repeticiones de CAG, mientras que alelo mutante oscila entre 41 y 59 repeticiones de CAG. Conclusión: Este es el primer reporte de la EH en población panameña, la prevalencia estimada es baja de 0.25 x 100000 habitantes. Estudios futuros deberán realizarse para conocer la prevalencia en Panamá y Centro América además de determinar el origen ancestral de esta población. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Introduction: Huntington´s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor, cognitive and psychiatric dysfunction. HD prevalence in Panama or in Central America is unknown. This will be the first report in Panamá about HD. Metodology: The objective is to estimate HD prevalence in Panamanian population. A retrospective, descriptive study of patients with HD between 2007 and 2021 was conducted. Panamanians > 15 years, 1 case per family, with typical clinical symptoms, with or without family history, brain magnetic resonance and positive genetic test and then included in the National registry of Huntington Disease. Results: Eleven index cases were presented, 6 women. The mean age was 40 years (range 23-63), median 43±12.4, sex ratio was 5:6, the onset age was 29 years (range 14-43), median 27±11.13. 3 cases in young patients. 91 symptomatic cases out of 185 relatives, with a dominant paternal transmission, all heterozygous. Normal allele between 13-23 CAG repetitions, while the mutant allele ranges between 41 and 59 CAG repetitions. Conclusions: This is the first HD report in Panamanian population, with a low estimated prevalence of 0.25 x 100,000. The aim of this study is to promote HD research in Panama and Central America and determine the ancestral origin of this population. (provided by Infomedic International)

Modelagem celular in vitro da Doença de Huntington com ácido 3-nitropropiônico e ácido quinolínico & Avaliação das funções neuroprotetoras da adenosina / In vitro cell modeling of Huntington's Disease with 3-nitropropionic acid and quinolinic acid and evaluation of the neuroprotective functions of adenosine

A Doença de Huntington (Huntington's disease - HD) trata-se de uma patologia neurodegenerativa hereditária caracteriza por meio da expressão das proteínas huntingtinas mutantes (mHtt), das mortes dos neurônios espinhais médios (medium spiny neurons MSNs) GABAérgicos D2-positivos do striatum e da hipercinesia. Uma hipótese se refere à função das mHtts de potencializarem os efeitos excitotóxicos das estimulações dos receptores de NMDA (NMDAR) por meio da inibição da succinato desidrogenase, resultando em desequilibrio das [Ca2+]i, estresse oxidativo e apoptose. A adenosina agonista dos receptores purinérgicos P1 tem sido descrita por conta das suas funções neuroprotetoras e neuromodulatórias. Assim, estabelecemos dois modelos in vitro da HD fundamentados nas neurodiferenciações das linhagens murinas de célula-tronco embrionárias E14-TG2a e progenitoras neurais do hipocampo HT-22; seguidas pelos tratamentos com ácido quinolínico (QA) agonista seletivo dos NMDARs , na ausência e na presença do ácido 3-nitropropiônico (3-NP) inibidor irreversível da succinato desidrogenase. Estes modelos foram utilizados nas avaliações das funções neuroprotetoras da adenosina. Os neurônios pós-mitóticos das culturas de E14-TG2a diferenciadas foram caracterizados conforme os MSNs GABAérgicos do striatum; enquanto os neurônios HT-22 diferenciados foram caracterizados de modo inespecífico. Metodologia: imunofluorescência (microscopia e citometria); PCR em tempo real; análise das variações dos potenciais das membranas plasmáticas e das variações transientes das [Ca2+]i por microfluorimetria; e quantificações das reduções do AlamarBlue® (% de sobrevida celular) e das atividades extracelulares de LDH (U/L) (necrose) por espectrometria. Avaliamos a capacidade do 3-NP de potencializar os efeitos excitotóxicos do QA comparando dois grupos de neurônios HT-22 diferenciados: QA 8mM (EC50) (controle); e 3-NP 5mM/QA 8mM. Avaliarmos o potencial neuroprotetor da adenosina comparando quatro grupos de neurônios HT-22 diferenciados: QA 8mM; adenosina 250µM/QA 8mM; 3-NP 5mM/QA 8mM; 3-NP 5mM/adenosina 250µM/QA 8mM. Os neurônios pós-mitóticos derivados das E14TG2a foram classificados como MSNsGABAérgicos do striatum integrantes de uma cultura neuronal heterogênea semelhante às conexões nigroestriatais, corticoestriatais, striatonigral e striatopallidal. Os neurônios HT-22 diferenciados perfaziam uma cultura neuronal heterogênea, não totalmente madura, composta por neurônios glutamatérgicos, dopaminérgicos, colinérgicos e GABAérgicos. Os neurônios HT-22 diferenciados 3-NP 5mM apresentaram menores % de sobrevida celular após os tratamentos com QA 8mM por 24h (p<0.05); e maiores amplitudes das variações das [Ca2+]i dependentes do QA 8mM (p<0.05) (cinética 6 minutos). Por outro lado, os neurônios HT-22 diferenciados pré- tratados com 3-NP 5mM apresentaram menores atividades extracelulares de LDH após o tratamento com QA 8mM por 24h menor proporção de necrose. Os pré-tratamentos com adenosina 250µM indicaram uma tendência dos efeitos neuroprotetores (p>0.05) maiores % de sobrevida celular; menores atividades extracelulares de LDH; e menores amplitudes das variações transientes das [Ca2+]i. Em conjunto, nossos resultados indicam que a inibição da succinato desidrogenase potencializa os efeitos excitotóxicos dos NMDARs por meio da alteração das [Ca2+]i e, provavelmente, dos mecanismos de morte celular; enquanto a adenosina apenas tendeu à neuroproteção

Huntington's disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative pathology characterized by mutant huntingtin proteins (mHtt) expression, striatum D2-positive GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSNs) cell death and hyperkinetic motor symptoms development. One hypothesis refers to the principle that mHtt potentiates the excitotoxic effects of NMDA receptor (NMDAR) stimulation by the inhibition of mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase, resulting in [Ca2+]i imbalance, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Adenosine P1 purinergic receptor agonist is related to neuroprotective and neuromodulatory functions. Thus, we established two in vitro HD models based on the neurodifferentiation of murine embryonic stem cell lines E14-TG2a and hippocampal neuroprogenitor cell line HT-22 followed by treatment with quinolinic acid (QA) selective agonist of NMDARs , in the absence and in the presence of 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP) irreversible inhibitor of succinate dehydrogenase. These models were used to assess the neuroprotective functions of adenosine. Post-mitotic neurons from differentiated E14-TG2a cultures were characterized according to striatum's GABAergic MSNs; while the differentiated HT-22 neurons were characterized in a non-specific way. Methodology included immunofluorescence (microscopy and cytometry); real-time PCR; analysis of variations in the plasma membrane potentials and of transient variations in the [Ca2+]i by microfluorimetry; and quantification of AlamarBlue® reductions (% cell survival) and of extracellular LDH activity (U/L) (necrosis) by spectrometry. We evaluated the ability of 3-NP to potentiate the excitotoxic effects of QA by comparing two groups of differentiated HT-22 neurons: 8mM QA (control); and 5mM 3-NP/8mM QA. We evaluated the neuroprotective potential of adenosine comparing four groups of differentiated HT-22 neurons: QA 8mM; 250µM adenosine/8mM QA; 5mM 3-NP/8mM QA; 5mM 3-NP/250µM adenosine/8mM QA. Postmitotic neurons derived from E14TG2a were classified as striatums GABAergic MSNs that are part of a heterogeneous neuronal culture similar to nigrostriatal, corticostriatal, striatonigral, and striatopallidal connections. Differentiated HT-22 neurons consisted of a heterogeneous neuronal culture and not fully mature glutamatergic,dopaminergic, cholinergic and GABAergic neurons. Differentiated HT-22 neurons following 5mM 3-NP treatment showed lower % cell survival after treatments with 8mM QA for 24h (p<0.05); and higher amplitudes of the variations of [Ca2+]i induced by 8mM QA (p<0.05) (kinetics 6 minutes). On the other hand, differentiated HT-22 neurons 5mM 3-NP showed lower extracellular LDH activities after treatment with 8mM QA for 24h indicating a lower proportion of necrotic cells. Pretreatments with 250µM adenosine indicated a trend towards neuroprotective effects, such as higher percentages of cell survival; lower extracellular LDH activities; and lower amplitudes of transient variations of [Ca2+]i. Taken together, our results indicate that succinate dehydrogenase inhibition potentiated the excitotoxic effects of NMDARs by altering [Ca2+]i and, probably, cell death mechanisms, while adenosine only to neuroprotection

La enfermedad de Huntington: una difícil relación entre los enfermos y el derecho a la salud en Colombia / Huntington's Disease: A Difficult Relationship between Patients and the Right to Health in Colombia / A doença de Huntington: uma difícil relação entre os doentes e o direito à saúde na Colômbia

Resumen Introducción: el derecho a la salud está consagrado en la Constitución Política y en la Ley Estatutaria de Salud 1751 de 2015. Las personas con enfermedad de Huntington requieren atención especializada e interdisciplinaria, por ser un complejo trastorno genético neurodegenerativo, que comienza en mitad de la vida adulta y no es curable. Materiales y métodos: estudio cualitativo, en diferentes regiones, mediante entrevistas en visita familiar, observación participante y revisión documental. Los resultados son fruto del análisis, realizado según postulados de la teoría fundamentada con origen en la sociología. Resultados: se encontró una difícil relación de las personas con el sistema de salud: los que buscan atención, encuentran múltiples barreras que tratan de superar a través de la tutela, viven en ciudades principales o intermedias con alguna atención que los favorezca. Otros, en regiones distantes como Chocó y Juan de Acosta (Atlántico) emprenden pocas acciones en una suerte de "desesperanza aprendida", como propone Seligman: "no hacer nada porque nada va a funcionar". Conclusión: ellos presentan la enfermedad en estado genuino, no reciben atención y sus condiciones son precarias hasta estados de desnutrición y abandono. La mayoría no tuvo acceso al trabajo formal; por lo tanto, no tendrán posibilidad de la pensión de invalidez o vejez, otros se debaten en el proceso de lograrla, y se encuentran en condiciones de pobreza y precariedad.

Abstract Introduction: The right to health is enshrined in the Political Constitution of Colombia as well as in the Statutory Health Legislation 1751 of 2015. Patients with Huntington's disease require specialized and interdisciplinary care because of the complex genetic neurodegenerative nature of the disorder, which usually affects the middle-aged individuals and is incurable. Materials and methods: This qualitative study was conducted in different regions, followed by data collection through interviews during family visits, participant observation, and documentary review. The results are a part of the analysis, which was conducted according to the grounded theory postulates with an origin in sociology. Results: A difficult relationship was noticed between the individuals and health system, indicating that those seeking care encounter multiple barriers and then attempt to overcome them through tutelage and live in principal or intermediate cities with favorable care availabilities. Others living in remote regions, such as Chocó and Juan de Acosta on the Atlantic, undertake only a few actions as a sort of "learned helplessness," better summarized by Seligman as "doing nothing because nothing will work." Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate that Huntington's disease in the genuine state receives no care and that the conditions of these patients are precarious to the states of malnutrition and abandonment. The majority of these patients have no access to formal employment; thus, they see no possibility for disability pension or retirement, while others debate about the process of achieving it and suffering from poverty and precariousness.

Resumo Introdução: o direito à saúde está consagrado na Constituição Política e na Lei Sanitária Estatutária 1751 de 2015. Pessoas com doença de Huntington requerem atendimento especializado e interdisciplinar por se tratar de uma doença genética neurodegenerativa complexa, que se inicia na metade da vida adulta e não é curável. Materiais e métodos: estudo qualitativo, realizado em diferentes regiões. A coleta foi realizada por meio de entrevistas em visitas familiares, observação participante e revisão documental. Os resultados são fruto de análises, realizadas de acordo com os postulados da teoria fundamentada com origem na sociologia. Resultados: constatou-se a difícil relação entre as pessoas e o sistema de saúde: quem busca atendimento encontra múltiplas barreiras que tentam superar por meio de processo judicial, moram em cidades principais ou intermediárias com algum atendimento que os favorece. Outros, vivem em regiões distantes como Chocó e Juan de Acosta no Atlântico, empreendem poucas tentativas de processo judicial como uma espécie de "desesperança aprendida" como propõe Seligman: "não faça nada porque nada vai funcionar". Conclusão: os pacientes apresentam a doença de forma genuína, não recebem atenção médica e vivem em condições precárias com certo grau de desnutrição e em estado de abandono. A maioria não teve acesso ao trabalho formal, portanto, não terá a possibilidade de receber aposentadoria por invalidez ou idade, outros estão lutando para obtê-lo, e se encontram em condições de pobreza e precariedade.

Efeito do treinamento muscular respiratório em pacientes com doença de Huntington: relato de casos / Effect of muscular respiratory training in Huntington disease's patients: study cases

Introdução: A doença de Huntington (DH) é uma doença neurodegenerativa progressiva, caracterizada pela tríade: alterações motoras, distúrbios psiquiátricos e disfunção cognitiva. Os pacientes com DH apresentarão restrição da mobilidade, que, futuramente, irá ocasionar fraqueza muscular generalizada. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do treinamento da musculatura respiratória com o uso do Threshold em pacientes diagnosticados com DH atendidos na clínica escola de Fisioterapia do Centro Universitário Unieuro. Métodos: Os participantes foram submetidos ao programa de treinamento da musculatura respiratória com o uso do Threshold® IMT. O programa consiste em 3 séries com 5 repetições ao dia, por 3 semanas. Ao final do treinamento os pacientes foram reavaliados, e os resultados obtidos foram comparados com os resultados obtidos na avaliação inicial. Resultados: Após 3 semanas de treinamento, o paciente 1 apresentou como melhor resultado da pressão inspiratória máxima e da pressão expiratória máxima igual a 50 cmH2O e no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos percorreu 261 metros. Já o paciente 2 apresentou como melhor resultado da pressão inspiratória máxima 70 cmH2O e da pressão expiratória máxima 60 cmH2O, e no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos percorreu 146 metros. Conclusão: Conclui-se que o treinamento muscular respiratório pode ser benéfico para os pacientes com doença de Huntington, porém são necessários mais estudos para determinar o melhor protocolo para os mesmos. (AU)

Introduction: Huntington's disease (DH) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, characterized by the triad: motor alterations, psychiatric disorders and cognitive dysfunction. Patients with HD will exhibit mobility restriction, which in the future will lead to generalized muscle weakness. Objective: To evaluate the effects of respiratory muscle training with the use of Threshold in patients diagnosed with DH treated at the Clinical School of Physical therapy of Unieuro University Center. Methods: Participants underwent respiratory muscle training with Threshold® IMT. The program consists of 3 sets with 5 replicates per day, for 3 weeks. At the end of the training the patients were reassessed, and the results obtained were compared with the results obtained in the initial evaluation. Results: After 3 weeks of training, patient 1 presented the best result of maximal inspiratory pressure and maximal expiratory pressure equal to 50 cmH20 and walked in the 6-minute walk test 261 meters. Already, patient 2 presented the best inspiratory pressure result 70 cmH2O and the maximum expiratory pressure 60 cmH2O, and in the 6-minute walk test it ran 146 meters. Conclusion: We concluded that respiratory muscle training may be beneficial for patients with Huntington's disease, but further studies are needed to determine the best protocol for them. (AU)

The roles of epigenetic modifications in neurodegenerative diseases / 浙江大学学报·医学版

In neuronal system, epigenetic modifications are essential for neuronal development, the fate determination of neural stem cells and neuronal function. The dysfunction of epigenetic regulation is closely related to occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease. Abnormally elevated DNA methylation inhibits the expression of some DNA repair-related genes and affects the progression of Huntington's disease. In the brain of Alzheimer's disease patients, the levels of H3K27ac and H3K9ac histone modifications increased. In addition, the alteration of RNA methylation in animal models of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease showed discrepancy trends. Therefore, epigenetic modifications may serve as potential therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we summarize the recent progress of the roles of epigenetic modifications in neurodegenerative diseases.

Inside out: A successful repositioning of a chronic third-degree uterine inversion / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

@#In this day and age, with the advancement of treatments and the strong campaign to discourage home deliveries, chronic uterine inversion is now considered an uncommon but life-threatening obstetric condition. In this report, we present a case of a 17-year-old primipara, who sought consultation due to prolonged and heavy vaginal bleeding. Upon speculum examination, a knob-like, fleshy, hyperemic, smooth mass, approximately 6 cm × 5 cm × 4 cm, was seen occupying the upper third of the vaginal canal. On internal examination, a globular mass was felt protruding through the cervix, which bleeds easily on manipulation. Uterine corpus was neither appreciated on both abdominal and rectovaginal examination. The patient was admitted and managed as a case of chronic uterine inversion, which was further confirmed by a sonogram. Successful repositioning of the uterus was achieved after trying different established techniques and procedures in the attempts at maneuvering the chronically inverted uterus.

Psychosis in Huntington´s Disease. a rare and Under-Investigated Psychiatric Manifestation / Psychosis in Huntington's Disease: uma manifestação psiquiátrica rara e pouco investigada

Introduction: Psychotic symptoms are among the least prevalent and under-investigated psychiatric manifestations (PM) of Huntington's disease (HD). Case report: We herein report a case of a 31-year-old male patient who presented PM with a predominance of negative symptoms, without any significant abnormal movement. HD was diagnosed based on positive DNA analysis and family history. HD imposes longitudinal follow-up through a multidisciplinary approach in order to improve the quality of life and prognosis. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of comprehending the PM in the initial presentation of HD so that the diagnosis is not delayed until the onset of motor symptoms.

Introdução: Os sintomas psicóticos estão entre as manifestações psiquiátricas (MP) menos prevalentes e pouco investigadas da doença de Huntington (DH). Relado de caso: Relatamos o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino, 31 anos, que apresentou MP com predomínio de sintomas negativos, sem qualquer movimento anormal significativo. A DH foi diagnosticada com base em uma análise de DNA positiva e na história familiar. A DH impõe um acompanhamento longitudinal por meio de uma abordagem multidisciplinar, a fim de melhorar a qualidade de vida e o prognóstico. Conclusão: Este relato de caso destaca a importância da compreensão das MPs na apresentação inicial da DH, para que o diagnóstico não seja atrasado até ao aparecimento dos sintomas motores

Acortamiento de telómeros en enfermedades neurodegenerativas: implicaciones terapéuticas / Telomere attrition in neurodegenerative disorders: therapeutic implications

Introducción: Varias enfermedades neurodegenerativas están asociadas a la ocurrencia de acortamiento de los telómeros, y los convierten en biomarcadores y dianas terapéuticas potenciales. Objetivo: Reflejar la relevancia del acortamiento de los telómeros para enfermedades neurodegenerativas, y destacar sus implicaciones Material y métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica durante los meses de septiembre de 2019 a enero de 2020. Fueron consultadas bases de datos de referencia, con el uso de descriptores y operadores booleanos. La estrategia de búsqueda avanzada para la selección de los artículos fue empleada, teniendo en cuenta la calidad metodológica o validez de los estudios. Desarrollo: Fueron identificadas evidencias sólidas de asociación entre el acortamiento de los telómeros y las enfermedades de Alzheimer y Huntington, que sugieren un papel relevante de la biología de los telómeros en la fisiopatología de estas enfermedades. Las evidencias disponibles hasta el momento no permiten establecer la relevancia de la biología de los telómeros en la fisiopatología de la Enfermedad de Parkinson o de la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica. Se obtuvieron evidencias de la utilidad de terapias orientadas a la prevención del acortamiento de los telómeros para el tratamiento de enfermedades neurodegenerativas. Conclusiones: El acortamiento de los telómeros es de relevancia fisiopatológica y clínica para las enfermedades de Alzheimer y Huntington, mientras que existen evidencias insuficientes para establecer su importancia en la Enfermedad de Parkinson y la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica. El uso de estrategias para estimular la actividad de la telomerasa tiene potenciales aplicaciones terapéuticas en el contexto de enfermedades neurodegenerativas(AU)

Introduction: Several neurodegenerative disorders are associated with telomere attrition, turning telomeres into potential biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. Objective: To assess the relevance of telomere attrition for neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting its therapeutic implications. Material and methods: A literature review was carried out from September 2019 to January 2020. Several databases were searched by using descriptors and Boolean operators. Advanced search strategy was used for the selection of articles, taking into account the methodological quality and validity of the studies. Results: Strong evidence for an association between telomere attrition and Alzheimer and Huntington diseases was obtained, suggesting a potential importance of telomere biology in the physiopathology of these diseases. Current evidence does not allow establishing the relevance of telomere attrition in the physiopathology of Parkinson´s disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Evidence was obtained for the usefulness of therapies for the prevention of telomere attrition in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Conclusions: Telomere attrition has physiopathological and clinical relevance in Alzheimer´s and Huntington´s diseases, though current evidence is not enough to establish its role in Parkinson's disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Strategies that enhance telomerase activity have therapeutic potential in the context of neurodegenerative disorders(AU)

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium in different mitochondrial haplogroups of four genes associated with neuroprotection and neurodegeneration / Equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg em diferentes haplogrupos mitocondriais de quatro genes associados à neuroproteção e neurodegeneração

ABSTRACT Background: Malfunctioning or damaged mitochondria result in altered energy metabolism, redox equilibrium, and cellular dynamics and is a central point in the pathogenesis of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to identify mitochondrial genetic susceptibility markers for neurodegenerative diseases. Potential markers include the respiratory chain enzymes Riboflavin kinase (RFK), Flavin adenine dinucleotide synthetase (FAD), Succinate dehydrogenase B subunit (SDHB), and Cytochrome C1 (CYC1). These enzymes are associated with neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. Objective: To test if variants in genes RFK, FAD, SDHB and CYC1 deviate from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) in different human mitochondrial haplogroups. Methods: Sequence variants in genes RFK, FAD, SDHB and CYC1 of 2,504 non-affected individuals of the 1,000 genomes project were used for mitochondrial haplogroup assessment and HWE calculations in different mitochondrial haplogroups. Results: We show that RFK variants deviate from HWE in haplogroups G, H, L, V and W, variants of FAD in haplogroups B, J, L, U, and C, variants of SDHB in relation to the C, W, and A and CYC1 variants in B, L, U, D, and T. HWE deviation indicates action of selective pressures and genetic drift. Conclusions: HWE deviation of particular variants in relation to global populational HWE, could be, at least in part, associated with the differential susceptibility of specific populations and ethnicities to neurodegenerative diseases. Our data might contribute to the epidemiology and diagnostic/prognostic methods for neurodegenerative diseases.

RESUMO Introdução: Mitocôndrias defeituosas ou danificadas resultam em alterações do metabolismo energético, equilíbrio redox e dinâmica celular e são, portanto, identificadas como o ponto central da patogênese em muitos distúrbios neurológicos, como a doença de Alzheimer, a doença de Parkinson, a doença de Huntington e a Esclerose Lateral Amiotrófica. Portanto, é de fundamental importância identificar marcadores de susceptibilidade genética mitocondrial para doenças neurodegenerativas. Entre os potenciais marcadores relevantes estão as enzimas da cadeia respiratória riboflavina quinase (RFK), flavina adenina dinucleotídeo sintetase (FAD), succinato desidrogenase subunidade B (SDHB) e citocromo C1 (CYC1). Estas enzimas estão associadas à neuroproteção e à neurodegeneração. Objetivo: Testar se variantes nas sequências dos genes RFK, FAD, SDHB e CYC1 desviam do Equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg (HWE) em diferentes haplogrupos mitocondriais humanos. Métodos: Neste trabalho utilizamos os variantes nos genes RFK, FAD, SDHB e CYC1 de sequências de 2.504 indivíduos não afetados do projeto de 1.000 genomas para o cálculo dos valores de HWE em diferentes haplogrupos mitocondriais. Resultados: As variantes de RFK desviam de HWE nos haplogrupos G, H, L, V e W, variantes de FAD nos haplogrupos B, J, L, U e C, variantes de SDHB em relação às variantes C, W e A e CYC1 em B, L, U, D e T. O desvio de HWE indica a ação de pressões seletivas e desvio genético. Conclusões: O desvio do HWE de variantes particulares em relação ao HWE populacional global poderia estar, pelo menos em parte, associado à suscetibilidade diferencial de populações e etnias específicas a doenças neurodegenerativas. Nossos dados podem contribuir para a epidemiologia e métodos diagnósticos/prognósticos para doenças neurodegenerativas.

Free carnitine and branched chain amino acids are not good biomarkers in Huntington's disease / Carnitina livre e aminoácidos de cadeia ramificada não são bons biomarcadores na doença de Huntington

ABSTRACT Background: Huntington's disease (HD), caused by an expanded CAG repeat at HTT, has no treatment, and biomarkers are needed for future clinical trials. Objective: The objective of this study was to verify if free carnitine and branched chain amino acids levels behave as potential biomarkers in HD. Methods: Symptomatic and asymptomatic HD carriers and controls were recruited. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), age of onset, disease duration, UHDRS scores, and expanded CAG tract were obtained; valine, leucine, isoleucine, and free carnitine were measured. Baseline and longitudinal analysis were performed. Results: Seventy-four symptomatic carriers, 20 asymptomatic carriers, and 22 non-carriers were included. At baseline, valine levels were reduced in symptomatic and asymptomatic HD carriers when compared to non-carriers. No difference in free carnitine or isoleucine+leucine levels were observed between groups. BMI of symptomatic individuals was lower than those of non-carriers. Valine levels correlated with BMI. Follow-up evaluation was performed in 43 symptomatic individuals. UHDRS total motor score increased 4.8 points/year on average. No significant reductions in BMI or valine were observed, whereas free carnitine and isoleucine+leucine levels increased. Conclusions: Although valine levels were lower in HD carriers and were related to BMI losses observed in pre-symptomatic individuals, none of these metabolites seem to be biomarkers for HD.

RESUMO Introdução: A doença de Huntington (DH), causada por uma repetição CAG expandida no HTT, não possui tratamento e biomarcadores são necessários para futuros ensaios clínicos. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo foi verificar se os níveis de carnitina livre e aminoácidos de cadeia ramificada se comportam como potenciais biomarcadores na DH. Métodos: Portadores sintomáticos e assintomáticos e controles foram recrutados. Idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal (IMC), idade de início, duração da doença, escores UHDRS e trato CAG expandido foram obtidos; valina, leucina, isoleucina e carnitina livre foram medidas. Foram realizadas análises basal e longitudinal. Resultados: Setenta e quatro portadores sintomáticos, 20 portadores assintomáticos e 22 não portadores foram incluídos. No início do estudo, os níveis de valina estavam reduzidos em portadores de DH sintomáticos e assintomáticos quando comparados aos não portadores. Não foram observadas diferenças nos níveis de carnitina livre ou isoleucina + leucina entre os grupos. O IMC dos indivíduos sintomáticos foi menor que o dos não portadores. Níveis de valina correlacionaram-se com o IMC. Avaliação de acompanhamento foi realizada em 43 indivíduos sintomáticos. A pontuação do escore motor total da UHDRS aumentou 4,8 pontos/ano em média. Não foram observadas reduções significativas no IMC ou na valina, enquanto os níveis de carnitina livre e isoleucina+leucina aumentaram. Conclusões: Embora os níveis de valina tenham sido menores nos portadores de DH e estivessem relacionados às perdas de IMC observadas em indivíduos pré-sintomáticos, nenhum desses metabólitos parece ser biomarcador para a DH.

Perfil e capacidade funcional em sujeitos com Doença de Huntington / Profile and functional capacity in Huntington's disease subjects

Objetivo: traçar o perfil e a capacidade funcional de sujeitos com Doença de Huntington (DH) atendidos em um ambulatório de fisioterapia do Distrito Federal. Método: trata-se de um estudo transversal em que foram aplicados um questionário para coletar informações gerais para traçar o perfil, além do índice de Barthel, escala Lawton para medir grau de independência para as atividades de vida diária, força de preensão palmar por meio do dinamômetro JAMAR®, equilíbrio por meio da escala de equilíbrio de Berg, declínio cognitivo por meio da Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), e risco de disfagia utilizando a Eating assessment tool (EAT-10). Resultados: foram avaliados sete sujeitos, 58% homens e 42% mulheres com média de idade de 45,8±10,5 anos e tempo médio de diagnóstico de 7,5±4,2 anos. Todos apresentam redução da força de preensão palmar (21,1±7,3 Kg/F) e declínio cognitivo (13,1±4,2 pontos) no MoCA. Sobre o risco de cair, este se fez presente em todos os participantes com o risco de disfagia. Conclusão: os indivíduos com Doença de Huntington apresentaram déficit cognitivo, diminuição da força de preensão palmar e alterações de marcha; porém, ainda mantêm independência para as atividades básicas de vida diária , além de risco para a disfagia.

Objective: to outline the profile and functional capacity of subjects with Huntington's disease (HD) attended at a physiotherapy clinic in the Federal District. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in which a questionnaire was used to collect general information to profile, besides Barthel index, Lawton scale to measure the degree of independence for the activities of daily life, palmar grip strength using the JAMAR® dynamometer, balance by means of Berg balance scale, cognitive decline by means of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and risk of dysphagia using the Eating assessment tool (EAT-10). Results: Seven subjects were evaluated, 58% male and 42% female with mean age of 45.8 ± 10.5 years and mean diagnosis time of 7.5 ± 4.2 years. All presented reduced palmar grip strength (21.1 ± 7.3 Kg / F) and cognitive decline (13.1 ± 4.2 points) in MoCA. About the risk of falling this was present in all partcipants as well as the risk of dysphagia. Conclusion: The individuals with Huntington's disease presented cognitive deficit, decreased palmar grip strength and gait alterations, however still maintains independence for the basic activities of daily life, besides risk for dysphagia.