The motor changes associated with Huntington’s disease
What exactly is chorea?
Chorea is a disorder of the nervous system that occurs
in multiple clinical conditions. In other words, it is not limited to HD,
even though it is one of the classic symptoms associated with this particular
disease. Chorea is characterized by spontaneous, uncontrollable, irregular
movements, generally of the limbs and face. It can appear as unexpected
jerks or twisting, writhing motions. These unpredictable movements
contribute to poor balance, and the resulting walking difficulties lead to
the staggering, swaying gait associated with HD. It is this irregular
walking pattern that can make people with HD appear intoxicated, and also
explains the root of the word chorea, which is the Greek word for dance. In
the extreme, chorea can be a constant stream of violent movement. Severe
choreic motions are known as ballismus.
Chorea occurs in 90% of people with HD, and increases
over the first 10 years following onset. Although the specific motions of
chorea can vary from one individual to the next, there are often consistent
patterns within individuals. Chorea is usually present during waking hours,
and cannot generally be suppressed. As HD progresses, chorea normally gives
way to other movement difficulties, such as rigidity and bradykinesia.
To view a video clip showing chorea, please click here and here. Footage is from Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela, courtesy of
Dr. Nancy Wexler. HOPES would like to thank Julie Porter and the HD
Foundation as well.
Click here to return to the The Diagnosis of Huntington's Disease page.
Last Modified: 05/22/2009
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