Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, CJD, Prion Disease

It is defined as the brain degenerative disorder which leads to dementia and then death, the symptoms of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer’s but it speed is slow than Alzheimer’s in progression.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms include:

Sudden, jerky movements
Blurred vision
Blindness
Anxiety
Impaired thinking
Memory loss
Insomnia
Difficulty in speaking
Difficulty in swallowing
Depression

Causes

In this disorder spongy holes developed in the affected brain substance, because this disease belongs to a group of disorder called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. The cause of this disorder is abnormal protein called prion which after changing their shape leads to damage of brain.

Complications

Like other brain disorder which include dementia and memory loss Creutzfeldt-Jakob leads to the social isolation of people.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic tests include:

Imaging test like X-ray and MRI to see the brain picture in clear form.
Neurological exam to check the normal function of the brain like coordination, reflexes and balance.
Laboratory test of body fluids to evaluate the other causes.
EEG to check the electrical activity of the brain

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for this disease is available. Medications only gives to reduce the signs and symptoms and reduce the pain and better the quality of life of patient.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, CJD, Prion Disease