Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Causes
The gene mutations of prion protein is the mechanism that causes the dominant alpha helical regions to misfold and turn to beta pleated sheets, disabling the protein's ability for digestion. Infected prion are believed to come from human growth hormone products, electrode implants and, corneal and dural grafts. It may be inherited or transmitted by consuming meat affected with the disease's bovine form.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Definition
The fatal and rare denerative brain disease Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is caused by proteins called prions that multiply exponentially by refolding native proteins to infected state. Disrupting cell function, CJD results to cell death, rapid and progressive dementia, loss of memory, hallucinations and behavioral changes. Death can occur in as little as four months after the onset of the first symptoms.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Diagnosis
Individuals exhibiting symptoms of CJD need to undergo electoencephalography, celebrospinal fluid for 14-3-3 protein, and MRI of the brain for conclusive diagnosis.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Symptoms and Signs
CJD first affects the mental capacity of patients, causing behavioral changes, memory loss, among other cognitive problems. Physical problems will likewise surface impairing speech, balance and coordination, and movements.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease Treatment
Search for CJD's cure continues. Experimental treatment of the medication called pentosa polysulphate, which is used in treating interstitial cystitis, slowed the progression of the disease. No sufficient data however suggests that this would be an effective treatment.