DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Prion Diseases (TSEs)

HIGH SEVERITY

A group of fatal, transmissible neurodegenerative disorders caused by misfolded prion protein (PrP^Sc). Includes Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, variant CJD, Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome, fatal familial insomnia, and kuru. All are uniformly fatal.

Global Affected

5.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Rapidly progressive dementia
Cerebellar ataxia
Myoclonus
Visual disturbances
Insomnia (fatal familial insomnia)
Akinetic mutism

Treatment Options

Antibiotics
Antiviral medications
Antifungal agents
Antiparasitic drugs
Supportive care
Fluid management
Isolation precautions
Vaccination

Risk Factors

1Immunocompromised state
2Age (very young or elderly)
3Chronic diseases
4Travel to endemic areas
5Crowded living conditions
6Poor sanitation
7Animal exposure
8Healthcare exposure

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Culture
  • 2PCR testing
  • 3Serology
  • 4Antigen detection
  • 5Microscopy
  • 6Imaging
  • 7Biopsy

Prognosis

Generally good with appropriate treatment for most infections. Prognosis depends on pathogen virulence, host immune status, and timely treatment initiation.

Prevention

  • Vaccination
  • Hand hygiene
  • Safe food and water
  • Vector control
  • Safe sex practices
  • Prophylactic medications
  • Isolation precautions

Research Status

No effective treatment. Symptomatic care only. RT-QuIC and CSF 14-3-3 aid diagnosis. Research on anti-prion compounds (pentosan polysulfate, doxycycline) unsuccessful. Prevention of transmission critical.

Affected Countries

AustraliaCanadaGermanyDenmarkSpainFranceUnited KingdomCroatiaItalyJapanNigeriaPGTurkeyTaiwanUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.who.int/health-topics/infectious-diseases
  • https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol
  • https://medlineplus.gov/infectiousdiseases.html

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.