Creutzfeldt-jakob Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) is a rare, degenerative, and invariably fatal brain disorder. It is caused by abnormal proteins called prions that damage the brain, leading to rapidly progressive dementia and eventual death. Transmissible forms of CJD can be caused by eating contaminated beef, inherited genetic mutations, or medical exposure to contaminated tissue or equipment. Symptoms of CJD include confusion, memory loss, impaired vision and coordination, insomnia, and seizures. This disease is usually fatal within one year of diagnosis. CJD is an important public health concern because it is fatal, has a long incubation period, and is difficult to diagnose. Diagnosis is often made by ruling out other causes of dementia, as there is no single test available to diagnose CJD. Treatment is largely supportive and focused on symptom management. Research is being conducted to better understand the mechanisms of transmission and to develop therapies to help people with CJD.
← Journal of Diseases