Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease – Overview
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a rare, rapidly progressive, and fatal neurodegenerative condition that affects the brain. Caused by abnormal proteins called prions, CJD leads to brain tissue damage, resulting in severe mental deterioration, physical disability, and ultimately death. It is one of several conditions classified as prion diseases or transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs).
CJD is most often sporadic, meaning it occurs without any identifiable cause or risk factor. However, in some cases, it may be inherited through genetic mutations, acquired via contaminated medical procedures, or linked to the consumption of infected meat products, as in variant CJD (vCJD). The disease causes brain cells to die, creating tiny holes in the brain tissue and giving it a sponge-like appearance.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Symptoms of CJD typically begin with memory loss, personality changes, or impaired judgement. As the disease progresses, individuals experience muscle stiffness, difficulty speaking or swallowing, involuntary movements, and eventually lose the ability to walk or communicate. The condition worsens rapidly, with most patients dying within a year of symptom onset.
Although extremely rare—affecting roughly one to two people per million annually—CJD is devastating. There is no cure or effective treatment, and diagnosis can be difficult during life. However, supportive care and accurate diagnosis are important for managing symptoms and providing comfort.
In summary, CJD is a fatal brain disorder caused by misfolded proteins. While rare, its rapid progression and severe symptoms make it a significant neurological emergency that requires immediate attention.
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