Which disease is characterized by the gradual destruction of brain cells that control muscle movement?

Which disease is characterized by the gradual destruction of brain cells that control muscle movement?

• A. Huntington's disease
• B. Alzheimer's disease
• C. Parkinson's disease
• D. Multiple sclerosis

Answer: (C)

The gradual destruction of brain cells that control muscle movement is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. This condition primarily affects the basal ganglia, a cluster of nerve cells in the brain that play a crucial role in coordinating movement and balance. As these specific brain cells deteriorate, individuals with Parkinson's experience symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance. In contrast, Huntington's disease involves a genetic mutation leading to the degeneration of neurons in specific areas of the brain, affecting motor control and resulting in chorea and other cognitive impairments. Alzheimer's disease primarily impacts memory and cognitive functions, leading to dementia rather than directly affecting muscle movement. Multiple sclerosis is characterized by the immune system attacking the protective covering of nerves, which can result in a variety of neurological symptoms, including issues with muscle control but not specifically the gradual destruction of brain cells dedicated to movement regulation. Thus, the focus on the gradual destruction of brain cells specifically influencing muscle coordination underscores why Parkinson's disease is identified as the correct answer.

The gradual destruction of brain cells that control muscle movement is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. This condition primarily affects the basal ganglia, a cluster of nerve cells in the brain that play a crucial role in coordinating movement and balance. As these specific brain cells deteriorate, individuals with Parkinson's experience symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance.

In contrast, Huntington's disease involves a genetic mutation leading to the degeneration of neurons in specific areas of the brain, affecting motor control and resulting in chorea and other cognitive impairments. Alzheimer's disease primarily impacts memory and cognitive functions, leading to dementia rather than directly affecting muscle movement. Multiple sclerosis is characterized by the immune system attacking the protective covering of nerves, which can result in a variety of neurological symptoms, including issues with muscle control but not specifically the gradual destruction of brain cells dedicated to movement regulation.

Thus, the focus on the gradual destruction of brain cells specifically influencing muscle coordination underscores why Parkinson's disease is identified as the correct answer.