DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjmcr.2025.v13i01.022

Pages: 102-104

Introduction: Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare genetic disorder with autosomal dominant inheritance, caused by CAG repeat expansions in the IT15 gene. It affects about 1 in 10,000 people and leads to neurodegeneration, primarily impacting the striatum and later causing cortical atrophy. Clinically, HD presents with motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms, with psychiatric manifestations often occurring early and causing diagnostic confusion. Clinical Observation: A case of Mrs. S.M., a 40-year-old woman hospitalized for aggressive behavior, is discussed. Initially diagnosed with brief psychotic disorder, she later developed dysarthria and choreic movements. Genetic testing confirmed HD, underscoring the complex psychiatric presentation that can precede motor symptoms. Discussion: Psychiatric symptoms are common in HD and may appear before motor issues, often leading to misdiagnosis. These symptoms, including aggression, depression, and psychosis, correlate with underlying brain degeneration. Treatment generally involves atypical antipsychotics like quetiapine for better tolerance. Conclusion: HD’s early psychiatric symptoms can obscure diagnosis. Effective management focuses on multidisciplinary care to sustain patient autonomy and quality of life.