Ayurvedic Management of Rare Genetic Condition-Huntington's Chorea: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND

Huntington's Chorea is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by involuntary movements, cognitive decline, and psychiatric disturbances. It is caused by an autosomal dominant mutation in the HTT gene, leading to an abnormal expansion of CAG repeats. The disease typically manifests in mid-adulthood and gradually worsens over time. The progressive nature of the disease leads to motor, cognitive, and psychiatric impairments, significantly affecting the quality of life.

AIM: This study aims to highlight the progressive nature of Huntington's disease, its impact on motor and cognitive functions, and the role of symptomatic management in improving the patient's quality of life through Ayurveda.

METHODS

A 40-year-old male presented with involuntary movement in the upper and lower extremities, difficulty in doing daily routine work, anxiety, difficulty in walking, and sleeplessness for a year. A thorough Huntington's disease mutation analysis was conducted to confirm the diagnosis. The patient was treated with Ayurvedic shodana (Bio-purification), Sarvanga Snehan with Prasarini Taila, followed by Shashtik Shali Pinda Swedan, Nasya with Shadbindu Taila, Shiropichu with Brahmi Taila, Sarvang Dhara with dashmoola kwath, Erandmooladi niruh basti, and shamana (palliative) chikitsa (treatment), Zandopa powder, Balasaireyakadi Kashaya, Kalyanak ghrit, and capsule palsineuron orally for 4 months.

RESULT: Ayurvedic management promoted substantial improvements in behavioral health, neuromotor function, and activities of daily living as assessed by the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) Sydenham's Chorea Rating Scale (USCRS).

DISCUSSION: The patient's clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with Huntington's Chorea.

CONCLUSION

Huntington's Chorea is a debilitating condition with no definitive cure. Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary management approach can help alleviate symptoms and improve patient well-being. Genetic counseling plays a crucial role in managing the familial impact of the disease.

KEYWORDS: HTT gene, Genetic Counseling, CAG Repeat Expansion, Huntington's Chorea, Motor Dysfunction, Ayurvedic Medicine, Case Report.