SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Challenging Norms: A Case Study of Stroke-Like Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Presentation

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This case report describes an atypical presentation of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) that initially resembled a stroke. The authors emphasize that CJD can present with varied and misleading neurologic symptoms, particularly in patients with multiple medical comorbidities, making early recognition difficult.<br /><br />The report highlights a patient whose clinical course challenged standard stroke-based diagnostic approaches. Although stroke-like symptoms are uncommon in CJD, this case suggests clinicians should keep CJD on the differential when the presentation is unusual or progresses in a way that does not fit typical vascular disease.<br /><br />The article notes that early identification of CJD is important because it allows patients and families to receive timely information, prepare for end-of-life care, and make informed decisions. The authors argue that greater awareness of atypical and stroke-mimicking presentations could reduce diagnostic delay.<br /><br />Diagnostic discussion included imaging and laboratory evaluation. Repeat testing supported the diagnosis, with markedly elevated tau protein reported and RT-QuIC testing performed, consistent with suspected prion disease. The case illustrates how initial stroke assessments may fail to capture CJD early in the course.<br /><br />The authors conclude by calling for:<br />- better standardized protocols for evaluating suspected CJD,<br />- clearer diagnostic workup pathways, and<br />- educational efforts for healthcare professionals to improve recognition of rare and atypical presentations.<br /><br />Overall, the case underscores the need for broader clinical awareness of CJD beyond its classic presentation so that diagnosis can be reached earlier in patients who present with stroke-like neurologic findings.

Asset Subtitle

Kassandra M. Ogbodu

Meta Tag

Author List Kaitlyn Seibold, Kassandra M. Ogbodu, Morgan Lucero, Pinky Jha

Category Clinical Vignettes

Concept Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

Concept Variability

Concept Early Detection

Concept Diagnosis

Concept Diagnostic Workup

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Medical College of Wisconsin

Presenting Author Kassandra M. Ogbodu

Track Adult

Keywords

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

CJD

stroke mimic

atypical presentation

prion disease

neurologic symptoms

diagnostic delay

RT-QuIC

tau protein

early recognition

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

Variability

Early Detection

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Workup