Medical genetics, Huntington's chorea, and legal questions pertaining to autopsy

A family with Huntington's chorea was evaluated. The 65-year-old male proband had been diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic. Because of Huntington's chorea in the family, he was considered "affected" by many of his relatives. Following his death, autopsy was refused by the patient's son, who had been his legal guardian. Legal consultation eventually led to autopsy, which showed no evidence of Huntington's chorea. Genetic counselling was provided for his children and siblings. Pertinent legal and neuropsychiatric issues in Huntington's disease are reviewed.