My mother had a brain disorder and died before she was retirement age. Should I get tested?

Question

My sister was just diagnosed with the same disease at the same age as my mother. She is 16 yrs older than me. I am 43.
Should I get tested and for what reasons?

The disorder is called Picks disease. There is no cure and it leads to progressive neurological disfunction and then death after about 8-10 yrs.
Its very similar to Alzheimers disease.

Answer 1

The majority of Picks disease is not hereditary but if your mother and sister had the same disease then maybe you are also in risk.
Onset of Pick's disease typically occurs sometime in the 50’s
so may be it's a good idea that you visit a neurologist now.
(before getting 50)

Answer 2

I don't know - that depends on you. If there is no cure and death is imminent, I wonder what good it does to know. If you have children and a husband that you will be leaving behind, you'll of course want to be sure that everything will be taken care of for them. Other than that, though, what good does it do to know? Live life to it's fullest - but you should be doing that regardless of whether you have the disease. Best of luck to you.

Answer 3

Yes get tested. Many brain diseases (diseases in general also) are genetic! You can get tested now and I would continue to get tested every few years! Most diseases will not effect everyone in the family but you never know! Rather safe than sorry!!

Answer 4

i would. idk if its something that can be passed down to you or if it is something about her life style but just go and ask your Dr. about it. they will tell you whatever you need to know good luck