Treatment of Huntington's Disease with Reduced Lung Function and Respiratory Muscle Weakness

Clinical Scenario

Respiratory involvement in Huntington's disease is not confined to late-stage disease. Measurable reductions in lung volume, cough effectiveness, and respiratory muscle strength can occur well before end-stage, and upper airway changes may be detectable even in pre-symptomatic individuals. Managing this aspect of HD requires targeted attention alongside the broader neurological picture.

Presenting Condition

Reduced lung function and respiratory muscle strength are not only associated with end-stage disease but occur much earlier, with evidence of some upper airway changes in pre-symptomatic individuals and reduction of cough effectiveness, reduced lung volume, and impaired respiratory strength by mid-disease.

Treatment Approach (Partial Summary)

The structured protocol for this presentation centres on a home-based training program directed at the respiratory muscles to support pulmonary function in patients with manifest HD.

Full regimen detail, evidence grading, and clinical decision guidance available via the link below.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00710

Reduced lung function and respiratory muscle strength are not only associated with end stage disease but occur much earlier, with evidence of some upper airway changes in pre-symptomatic individuals and reduction of cough effectiveness, reduced lung volume, and impaired respiratory strength by mid-disease.

Home-based respiratory muscle training program appeared to improve pulmonary function in manifest HD patients but had only a small effect on swallowing function, dyspnea, and exercise capacity (Grade B).

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