WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease? Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a disease that causes damage to your brain, spine, and nerves. CJD results in loss of mental, emotional, and physical abilities. CJD is fatal over time. What causes CJD? CJD is caused by a kind of protein known as prion. Prions are normally found in your body. With CJD, an abnormal form of prion in your brain, nerves, and spine causes harm. Healthcare providers do not know how most people get an abnormal protein. In some cases, the abnormal protein may be inherited or transmitted during an organ or tissue transplant. What are the signs and symptoms of CJD? - Confusion or memory loss
- Sudden, jerking movements
- Moodiness, depression, or anxiety
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Difficulty standing or walking
How is CJD diagnosed? - A biopsy is a procedure to remove small piece of tissue from your brain. Healthcare providers will send the sample to a lab to check for abnormal prions.
- An EEG, or electroencephalogram, is done to see activity in your brain. Healthcare providers will place small pads on your head and connect them to a machine to see how your brain is working.
- A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is a procedure during which healthcare providers insert a needle and remove fluid from around your spinal cord. It may show signs of inflammation or infection.
- A MRI may show areas of your brain that are damaged. You may be given contrast dye to help your brain show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast dye. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.
How is CJD treated? There is no cure for CJD. The goal of treatment is to help reduce your symptoms. Medicines are given to decrease pain, anxiety, and muscle spasms. You may need treatment or therapy to help with speaking or swallowing. When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- You are depressed and feel you cannot cope with your condition.
- You are anxious or nervous even after you take medicine.
- You have severe muscle twitching or pain even after you take medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care or call 911? - You have trouble breathing.
- You have sudden changes in your vision.
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