This article offers a detailed overview of specialized Huntington's disease centers, highlighting expert care, diagnosis, testing options, and support resources. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and choosing trusted facilities for optimal management of this progressive neurological disorder.

Guide to Specialized Facilities for Managing Huntington's Disease

Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurological condition characterized by subtle early signs that often necessitate in-depth testing, including genetic screening, for diagnosis. Patients and families look for credible testing centers and expert medical teams. The disorder affects movement and mental functions, leading to coordination problems, muscle weakness, involuntary movements, and sensory alterations. Emotional symptoms such as mood swings and mental health issues are also prevalent. Early detection and proper management are vital to enhance quality of life, despite the absence of a cure.

Should predictive genetic testing be considered for Huntington’s disease?

Testing at family members’ request can assess individual risk if there’s a history of the disease.

Understanding potential diagnosis helps in planning, although it doesn't currently provide a cure.

Accurate diagnosis guides appropriate supportive therapies and interventions.

Finding certified testing centers is crucial for reliable results and future planning.

Where can reliable information about Huntington’s disease be obtained?

The Huntington’s Disease Society of America manages a network of specialized clinics called HDSA Centers of Excellence.

These centers employ multidisciplinary, advanced approaches to deliver comprehensive patient care.

Across the nation, there are 43 centers staffed by experienced neurologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors.

They tailor treatment plans to meet individual and family needs.

For testing or treatment guidance, these centers are trusted resources.

Sample locations include:

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Albany Medical College

Columbia University/NYS Psychiatric Institute

Cleveland Clinic

Emory University

Dartmouth-Hitchcock

Duke University

Indiana University

Georgetown University

Johns Hopkins University

Hennepin County Medical Center

Massachusetts General Hospital

Ochsner Health System

Northwestern University

Ohio State University

Rush University Medical Center

Rocky Mountain Movement Disorders Center

Stanford University

University of California, Davis

University of Alabama, Birmingham

UC San Diego

UCLA

University of Colorado

UC San Francisco

University of Florida

University of Louisville

University of Iowa

University of Nebraska Medical Center

University of Pittsburgh

University of Pennsylvania

University of South Carolina

University of Rochester

University of South Florida

University of Texas-Houston

University of Tennessee-Memphis

University of Utah

University of Virginia

Vermont Center for Parkinson’s & Movement Disorders

University of Washington

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

UW-Madison

Washington University in St. Louis

Virginia Commonwealth University

These clinics deliver expert diagnosis and care for Huntington’s disease patients and families.

Choosing a nearby center is convenient, but consulting your doctor helps find the best fit.

Healthcare providers understand each facility’s strengths and can guide your decision.

Affiliated healthcare partners include:

Cole Neuroscience Center at University of Tennessee Medical Center

Oregon Health & Science University

Kaiser Permanente, Oakland

Erlanger Health System, University of Tennessee

University of Alabama

University of Mississippi Medical Center

What makes these centers standout?

Though Huntington’s remains incurable, these facilities excel in diagnosis and supportive care.

They provide thorough counseling, genetic testing, and diagnostic evaluations.

Resources and support tailored to patients and families help manage emotional and physical challenges.

Their comprehensive approach ensures appropriate planning and ongoing care.