Chronic Progressive Choreas is a neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by involuntary movements and can lead to disability. The word 'chorea' is derived from the Greek word 'khoreia' meaning 'dance' which is a reference to the jerky movements that are similar to those of a dance. The spelling of chorea is transcribed as /kəˈriːə/ in IPA phonetics. The term "chronic progressive choreas" represents a combination of the chronic and progressive nature of the disease, along with the involuntary movements.
Chronic Progressive Choreas is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive, and irregular movements called chorea. It is a rare and chronic condition that progressively worsens over time. Chorea refers to sudden, jerky, and uncontrolled movements that can occur in various body parts, including the face, limbs, and trunk.
This disorder typically manifests during childhood or adolescence, although adult-onset cases have also been reported. The main feature of Chronic Progressive Choreas is the gradual progression of symptoms, which can lead to significant functional impairment. These symptoms may include the loss of muscle coordination, difficulty walking, problems with speech and swallowing, as well as uncontrollable movements of the limbs, fingers, and face.
The cause of Chronic Progressive Choreas is often genetic, with several inherited forms identified. These include Huntington's disease, which is the most well-known and common form. Other genetic causes may include spinocerebellar ataxias, dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy, and neuroacanthocytosis. In some cases, the cause remains unknown.
Currently, there is no cure for Chronic Progressive Choreas, and treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life for the affected individuals. This may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including medications to control movements, physical and occupational therapy to improve mobility and functioning, speech therapy to address communication difficulties, and nutritional support as necessary.
Overall, Chronic Progressive Choreas is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and irregular movements, leading to functional impairment and requiring comprehensive management to optimize the individual's quality of life.