What is the outlook for patients who have chorea?

What is the outlook for patients who have chorea?

The outlook depends on what’s causing the involuntary muscle movements. People with Huntington’s disease can live 15 to 25 years after they develop symptoms. The condition slowly gets worse over time and makes it very difficult to do everyday activities like dressing, bathing and eating.

Children who develop Sydenham chorea after rheumatic fever usually recover within 2 years. Some children may have lingering behavioral or emotional issues, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). These issues can last a lifetime.

Chorea itself usually can be managed with currently available treatments.