Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease Presenting as Severe Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Ethan Cumbler, Kristin Furfari, Jeannette Guerrasio
Primary Institution: University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can severe depression be an initial presentation of Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease?
Conclusion
The case highlights that severe depression can be a behavioral manifestation of Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Initial symptoms included severe depression and suicidal ideation.
- Elevated 14-3-3 CSF protein suggested a prion disorder.
- Post-mortem examination confirmed the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease.
Takeaway
Sometimes, people can get very sad and confused because of a rare brain disease called Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, which can happen even if they seemed fine before.
Methodology
The case study involved clinical evaluation, imaging tests, and post-mortem examination.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in diagnosis due to initial psychiatric presentation.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
An 81-year-old white female with a history of waldenstroms macroglobulinemia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website