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Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Diseases and Conditions Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

CJD is characterized by changes in mental abilities, rapid deterioration, and ultimately death. Although it shares some symptoms with Alzheimer’s disease, CJD progresses much faster. Most cases of CJD are sporadic, meaning they occur without any identifiable risk factors. However, a small percentage of cases are hereditary due to mutations in the prion protein gene.

Types of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

There are three major types of CJD:

  1. Sporadic CJD (85% of cases):

    • Develops without any known risk factors.
    • Rapid progression of symptoms.

  2. Hereditary CJD (5-15% of cases):

    • Linked to genetic mutations.
    • Family history plays a role.

  3. Variant CJD (vCJD):

    • Associated with eating contaminated beef (specifically from cattle with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or “mad cow disease”).
    • Typically affects younger individuals.

Causes of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

CJD is caused by abnormal proteins called prions. These misfolded proteins accumulate in the brain, leading to irreversible damage. While most cases are sporadic, vCJD is linked to dietary exposure to infected beef. Other potential routes of transmission include contaminated surgical instruments, blood transfusions, and inherited mutations.

Risk Factors of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing CJD:

  • Age: Sporadic CJD usually occurs after age 60.
  • Genetics: Family history may elevate the risk.
  • Infection: Exposure to contaminated tissues during surgery or blood transfusion.

Symptoms of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Early symptoms of CJD include:
1. Personality Changes
2. Memory Loss
3. Impaired thinking
4. Blurry vision or blindness
5. Insomnia
6. Coordination problems.
7. Trouble speaking and swallowing.
8. Sudden, jerky movements.

Preventions of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Preventing CJD involves:

  • Destruction of Surgical Instruments: Properly sterilize instruments used in patients with CJD.
  • Blood Screening: Screen blood donors to prevent transmission.
  • Avoid Contaminated Meat: Be cautious when consuming beef.

Diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Accurate diagnosis relies on medical history, neurological exams, and specific tests:

  • Brain Autopsy and Biopsy: Confirms CJD.
  • Neurological Examination: Reveals muscle spasms and coordination issues.
  • EEG and MRI: Assess brain function and structure.
  • CSF Analysis: Detects CJD-associated proteins.

Treatment for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for CJD. Treatment focuses on symptom relief:

  • Medication: Morphine and methadone for pain management.
  • Self-Care: Improve quality of life during illness.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you or someone you know experiences symptoms suggestive of CJD, seek immediate medical attention.