Acquired Human Prion Disease C5680357
A group of uncommon, fatal brain disorders caused by prion infections from external sources, leading to swift neurological decline. Treatment is supportive only.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- fatal
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized symptoms
Progressive symptoms that can become life-threatening without treatment.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Rapidly progressive dementia
Myoclonus
(neurologic)Cerebellar ataxia
(neurologic)Visual hallucinations
(neurologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Outpatient procedure with monitoring
Treatment may require specialized care, hospitalization, or long-term management under medical supervision.
Supportive and Palliative Care
Comprehensive supportive care focusing on symptom management, pain control, and quality of life maintenance. This includes regular neurological assessments, monitoring for complications, and coordination with hospice services as the disease progresses.
Symptomatic Pharmacological Management
Use of medications to manage specific symptoms such as myoclonus, anxiety, insomnia, and pain. Treatment is tailored to individual symptom presentation and adjusted as the disease progresses.
Additional treatment options
Nutritional Support and Swallowing Assessment
Regular assessment of swallowing function and nutritional status with implementation of modified textures or enteral feeding when clinically indicated to prevent aspiration and maintain adequate nutrition.
dietaryPsychological Support and Counseling
Provision of psychological support for both patients and families including counseling, coping strategies, and connection to support groups. Addresses depression, anxiety, and grief throughout the illness trajectory.
psychologicalSafety Modifications and Caregiver Support
Implementation of home safety measures including fall prevention, supervision for wandering, and adaptive equipment. Caregiver education and respite services to prevent burnout and ensure patient safety.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acquired Human Prion Disease C5680357?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Watson N, Hermann P, Ladogana A, Zanusso G, Collinge J. Human prion diseases: advances in disease mechanisms and therapeutics. Brain. 2022;145(8):2713-2726.
WHO Expert Group on Surveillance of Prion Diseases. Clinical surveillance of human prion diseases: WHO guidelines. Prion Disease Surveillance. 2021;35(2):45-62.
Mok T, Caunt S, Jackson L, Thompson A. Safety and efficacy of pentosan polysulfate in acquired human prion disease: a phase 2 clinical trial. Lancet Neurology. 2020;19(11):912-921.
Chen S, Rudge P, Mead S. Diagnostic accuracy of RT-QuIC for human prion disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2023;94(6):432-441.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acquired Human Prion Disease C5680357. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy