Geriatric neurogenetics: oxymoron or reality?
Thomas D Bird1, Hillary P Lipe, Ellen J Steinbart
1Geriatric Research Education Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, S-182-GRECC, Seattle, WA 98108, USA. tomnroz@u.washington.edu
Archives of Neurology
|April 17, 2008
Summary
Single-gene neurogenetic disorders, such as Huntington disease, are increasingly recognized in elderly individuals over 85. These conditions are often underdiagnosed but will become more common with an aging population and advanced genetic testing.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Primary genetic diseases are typically diagnosed in younger populations.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence of single-gene mendelian diseases in elderly individuals.
Observation:
- This study reviewed neurogenetic cases in elderly patients at academic medical centers.
- Eight elderly patients (78-87 years) with single-gene neurogenetic diseases were identified, including Huntington disease, muscular dystrophy, spinocerebellar ataxias, familial Alzheimer disease, and hereditary neuropathy.
- Three patients lacked a family history of neurological disease.
Findings:
- Single-gene mendelian neurogenetic diseases occur in the oldest old population (over 85 years).
- These conditions are currently underrecognized.
- Cases are expected to increase due to population aging, better understanding of disease onset variability, and improved genetic testing.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering genetic neurodegenerative diseases in geriatric patients.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness and diagnostic efforts for these conditions in older adults.
- Emphasizes the role of genetic testing in diagnosing neurogenetic disorders in the elderly.
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