Correlates of apathy in Huntington's disease

J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2010 Summer;22(3):287-94. doi: 10.1176/jnp.2010.22.3.287.

Abstract

The authors aim to study prevalence and clinical correlates of apathy in Huntington's disease. Apathy was defined as an Apathy Scale score > or =14 points in 152 Huntington's disease mutation carriers and 56 noncarriers. Correlates of apathy were analyzed cross-sectionally in mutation carriers using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Forty-nine (32%) Huntington's disease mutation carriers showed apathy compared to none of the noncarriers. After exclusion of 10 depressed patients, apathy was independently associated with male sex, worse global functioning, and higher use of neuroleptics and benzodiazepines.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Huntington Disease / complications
  • Huntington Disease / psychology*
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Mood Disorders / complications
  • Mood Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Mood Disorders / psychology
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Prevalence
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Sex Factors