Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)

Definition

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare, fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by abnormally folded prion proteins. It leads to rapid brain damage and severe neurological symptoms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CJD is classified as a prion disease, caused by misfolded proteins called prions.
2. Symptoms often include rapid mental deterioration, memory loss, and coordination problems.
3. There are three main types: sporadic CJD, familial CJD, and acquired CJD.
4. Diagnosis typically involves EEGs, MRI scans, and cerebrospinal fluid tests for specific protein markers.
5. There is currently no cure for CJD; treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms.

Review Questions

• What type of microorganism causes Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease?
• List the primary symptoms associated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
• What diagnostic methods are commonly used to identify CJD?

Related terms

Prion: A type of protein that can trigger normal proteins in the brain to fold abnormally.

Neurodegenerative Disease: A disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells.

Sporadic CJD: The most common form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease that occurs without known risk factors.