Huntington's Disease Care
Expertise in Huntington’s disease diagnosis and treatments
Huntington’s Disease Doctors in Boston
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) neurologists offer specialized care for Huntington’s disease. If you or a loved one has this complex disease, our experienced team is here for you.
The BIDMC Huntington’s Disease Program has earned Center of Excellence designation from the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. This designation shows our commitment to the highest quality of patient care and outcomes.
What is Huntington's Disease?
Huntington’s disease is an inherited disorder, meaning it is passed down in families. It causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This process causes problems with movement, balance, thinking and mood. The symptoms of the disease get worse over time.
This condition causes movement, cognitive (thinking) and psychological symptoms. Most people develop symptoms in their 30s or 40s. However, symptoms can first occur earlier or later in life.
Diagnosing Huntington's Disease
Your care team may use one or more of these tests for an accurate diagnosis:
- Memory and cognitive testing
- Imaging tests
More About Huntington’s Disease Care
The Huntington’s Disease Interdisciplinary Clinic offers highly innovative, intensive treatment for Huntington’s disease. Our multidisciplinary team works together with you and your family to meet your physical, cognitive and emotional needs.
Part of our team includes expert genetic counseling. We have an experienced genetic counselor to work with you and your family.
This clinic takes place on Mondays. The visit includes an initial consultation with a neurologist who will determine what other providers you need to see. We will work with you to outline an individualized treatment plan.
Care Locations
We offer care at these affiliated locations:
- Tewksbury Hospital
- Braintree Manor Healthcare
- UMass Memorial Medical Center’s Movement Disorders Clinic
Our team will create a personalized care plan that fits your symptoms, needs and preferences. Depending on your needs, you may receive a combination of these treatment options:
Expert Rehabilitation Services
Depending on your symptoms, you may benefit from rehab and therapy. Your care team may recommend these services:
BIDMC is a credentialed Huntington Study Group site to offer research trials with varying levels of involvement. BIDMC research investigators are constantly seeking new information and discoveries to improve the treatment and care for patients with Huntington's Disease.
Ask your doctor if there’s a current clinical trial that may be right for you.
Advancing Care, Research & Education
Department of Neurology
The Department of Neurology offers exceptional patient care, education opportunities and research programs.
Neurology Research
Our top-tier research programs and laboratories work to advance the knowledge and treatment of neurological disorders.
Neurology Education
Our team offers comprehensive education and training programs for healthcare professionals, including fellowships and residencies.
Huntington's Disease Society of America Center of Excellence
BIDMC's Huntington's Disease Program has been designated a Center of Excellence by the Huntington's Disease Society of America, recognizing our commitment to high-quality, comprehensive care and access to clinical research for Huntington's disease.