Presymptomatic testing for Huntington's disease. Emotional aspects.

Presymptomatic genetic testing for Huntington's disease has been available since 1986. Recent discovery of the distinct gene by the Huntington's Disease Collaborative Research Group will probably simplify testing and encourage more people to pursue it. Unfortunately advances in treatment lag behind genetics diagnosis capabilities. The individual at risk faces pursuing a test for a disease for which there is no cure, only limited treatment. The emotional aspects are reviewed of individuals being tested at the Regional Genetic Program at the University of South Florida from May 1988 until April 1993.