Cases have occurred in adolescents who have received growth hormone derived from cadavers, despite the production process, which is intended to kill all bacterial and viral material in the product. Cadaver derived growth hormone has been replaced by synthetically manufactured growth hormone and contagion is no longer a problem. Once symptoms appear there is rapid progression of the disorder with progressive loss of brain function. There may be a familial tendency to acquire the disorder. Early symptoms include personality changes and changes in coordination.
Extreme dementia is accompanied by muscle tremors and rigid posture.
The virus associated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is contagious to humans and primates. Other risks include a family history of dementia. Risk of transfer of the organism on equipment or tissue is minimized by the health care provider. Neurologic examination and treatment equipment is sterilized to kill organisms that may cause the disease. Medical histories of potential cornea donors that indicate a history of diagnosed or possible Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease rule out the use of those corneas for transplantation.