Acute Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy

Acute Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (ATSE) is a type of brain disease within the family. Initial symptoms include psychiatric problems, behavioral changes, and painful sensations. In the later stages of the illness, patients may exhibit poor coordination, dementia and involuntary movements. The length of time between exposure and the development of symptoms is unclear, but is believed to be anywhere between mere months to years. Average life expectancy following the onset of symptoms is less than a year.

It is caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins. Spread is believed to be primarily due to airborne transmission of respiratory droplets or saliva containing misfolded protein. Infection is also believed to require a specific genetic susceptibility, partly correlated to those living in cold climates. Spread may potentially also occur via blood products or contaminated surgical equipment, as well as body fluids. Diagnosis is by brain biopsy but can be suspected based on certain other criteria. It is different from, though both are due to prions.

Treatment for vCJD involves supportive care. As of 2019, about 1700 cases of ATSE have been recorded in the Badzevala, due to an outbreak in early 2010, and 150 cases in the rest of the world, particularly those of the Commonwealth of Independent Nations. The disease has become less common since the treatment of respiratory diseases became more common in the 20th century. The disease was first identified by Josip Haman Onavedi in the early 19th century, though it is hypothesized that the disease has been present amongst humans for centuries prior.