RARE INFECTIOUS DISORDERS...

These disorders may be rare in clinical practice...but are frequently the topic of board
exams...so, it's worth remembering.


Q: What is CREUTZFELD-JACOB DISEASE?


A: It is a rapidly progressive encephalopathy caused by a PRION. It is similar to Mad Cow
Disease....causing ataxia, dementia and myoclonic jerking movements along with visual
defects. CT/MRI Images of the Brain are normal. EEG shows Triphasic Waveforms.
Almost always FATAL.


Q: What is PML (Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy)?


A: It is...as the name implies a form of encephalopathy....caused by JC-VIRUS ( a papovavirus),
which causes LYSIS of the Oligodentrocytes....leading to a WHITE MATTER disease.
There is no effective therapy.



Q: What is HAM (HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy)?


A: It is a RETROVIRUS borne disorder, that MIMICS Multiple Sclerosis. In USA can occur
in Southeast Florida. Pathophysiology: It is due to an autoimmune attack by CD8 T Cells
on HTLV-1 infected GLIAL cells. Serologies will confirm diagnosis.



Q: What type of meningitis is associated with GENITAL HERPES HSV-2 ?


A: MOLLARET'S MENINGITIS. It is a cause of BENIGN recurrent lymphocytic meningitis.
An astute practitioner will identify clinical findings in the genitalia (ulcers/lesions).
TX: Self Limited illness....No Acyclovir needed. DX: Confirmed by PCR.



Q: What Infections Disorders are most common and important to consider in TRAVELERS?


A: 1. MALARIA
2. TYPHOID FEVER
3. HEPATITIS (HAV/HBV/HEV/HCV)
4. DENGUE FEVER
5. AMEBIC LIVER ABSCESS



Thanks for your time....be back soon.