Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) in Healthcare Settings

Overview of CJD in Healthcare Settings

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rapidly progressive, invariably fatal neurodegenerative disorder believed to be caused by an abnormal isoform of a cellular glycoprotein known as the prion protein. CJD occurs worldwide and the estimated annual incidence in many countries, including the United States, has been reported to be about one case per million population.

CJD can be transmitted within healthcare settings. When this occurs it is referred to as Healthcare-Associated CJD.

Background/General Information

These resources may be of use to healthcare professionals:



Date last modified: April 5, 2005
Content source: 
Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion (DHQP)
National Center for Preparedness, Detection, and Control of Infectious Diseases (NCPDCID)