What is one potential outcome of untreated Huntington’s disease?

One potential outcome of untreated Huntington's disease is severe cognitive decline. Huntington's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by a mutation in the HTT gene, leading to the deterioration of neurons in specific areas of the brain, particularly the basal ganglia and cortex. As the disease advances, affected individuals may experience significant cognitive deficits, including difficulties with memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive functions. This decline can severely impact daily life and the ability to perform tasks that require higher-level thinking.

In early stages, individuals may have mild cognitive changes that can be subtle, but as the disease progresses, those changes become more pronounced, eventually leading to pervasive cognitive impairment and decline. Addressing Huntington's disease through appropriate management strategies and supportive therapies can help mitigate some symptoms, but without treatment, cognitive decline is a critical aspect of the disease's trajectory.