Proteins within the brain are crucial for many functions, including the management of chemical reactions. Prions are abnormal proteins that spread throughout the brain and cause serious medical effects, including loss of life. This process is known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE), also called prion disease.
Prion disease can result from mutated genes, or it may develop after exposure to contaminated food and other items. In some cases, TSEs occur spontaneously without a clear underlying cause. Types of prion diseases include:
Prion diseases affect the brain, which will lose its ability to function as proteins become malformed. This causes a wide range of symptoms, such as loss of memory, cognitive troubles, anxiety, moodiness, personality changes, movement disorders, insomnia, and disorientation.
Researchers continue to investigate prion diseases to develop an effective treatment regimen. At this time, no such treatment exists, and TSEs are considered incurable. While the prognosis can depend on the type of prion disease, their effects are life-threatening.
While there is no specific treatment or cure, doctors can prescribe medication for prion diseases to make patients more comfortable. Standard treatment regiments may include:
Being diagnosed with a prion disease is an unsettling proposition but remember that these diseases are quite rare. In the event of a diagnosis, getting the proper medical assistance is crucial for reducing the negative effects of these diseases.