Creutzfeldt-Jakob's Disease Research Paper

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Creutzfeldt-Jakob’s Disease: Neuromuscular Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob’s Disease (CJD) is a rare, degenerative, invariably fatal brain disorder, which is derived from transmissible spongiform encephalopathy caused by prions. Prions occur in a normal state, which are harmless proteins found in the body’s cells, and also in an infectious form that causes disease. Harmless forms of prion proteins have the same sequence of amino acids, but the infectious forms of protein have a different folded shape than normal proteins. Once the abnormal protein prion appears they aggregate together, giving the brain a spongy appearance, characterized by tiny holes. These infectious particles are mainly found on the surface of cells in the central nervous system. These tiny holes can be visually seen …show more content…

(Belay) Although, a neurological evaluation by the doctor, along with standard diagnostic tests that include: spinal tap, electroencephalogram (EEG), computerized tomography of the brain, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can help rule out other causes that are associated with CJD. If CJD is indeed the diagnosis of a patient, often a brain biopsy is discouraged, because it will not alter the course of the disease. Nor, is it certain that the biopsy will obtain specimens from the affected area, putting the patient at risk for further complication of an already fatal disease. Biopsy and autopsy procedures of CJD, put those who handle the specimens at a small risk likewise, due to accidental self-inoculation. Scientists are developing a laboratory test for CJD, using cerebrospinal fluid. (National Instituion of Neurololgical disorders and Stroke) This test will detect a protein marker that indicates neuronal degeneration from the cerebrospinal fluid. It will be safer for the patient, as well as, the medical staff, and a better alternative to the brain