What is CJD?
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease is a rare, degenerative brain disorder caused by abnormal proteins called prions. It belongs to a family of human and animal diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs).
Types of CJD
-
Sporadic CJD (sCJD)
- Most common form (85-90% of cases)
- Occurs spontaneously with no known trigger
-
Familial CJD (fCJD)
- Inherited genetic mutation
- Accounts for 10-15% of cases
-
Acquired CJD
- Variant CJD (vCJD) - linked to consuming BSE-infected beef
- Iatrogenic CJD - from medical procedures
Symptoms
Early Signs:
- Rapid cognitive decline
- Memory problems
- Personality changes
- Vision problems
- Depression
Progressive Symptoms:
- Involuntary movements
- Blindness
- Weakness
- Coma
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves multiple tests:
- Neurological examination
- MRI brain scans
- EEG monitoring
- Spinal fluid tests
- Genetic testing (for familial cases)
Treatment & Management
- No cure currently exists
- Treatment focuses on symptom management
- Supportive care to maintain quality of life
- Family support and counseling
Prognosis
CJD typically progresses rapidly:
- Average survival: 1 year after symptom onset
- Some patients may survive longer
Prevention
Preventive measures include:
- Strict medical instrument sterilization
- Screening of donated blood
- Food safety regulations
- Genetic counseling for at-risk families
Support Resources
- National CJD organizations
- Support groups for families
- Specialized medical centers
- Palliative care services