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Neurology144 papers

Spongiform encephalopathy

Last edited: 4/14/2026

Overview

Spongiform encephalopathy encompasses transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) such as classical BSE (C-BSE) and atypical L-type BSE (L-BSE), affecting various species including goats and cattle, with potential zoonotic risks. 15

Diagnosis

  • Clinical features include skin lesions, alopecia, and abnormal mental status in affected animals. 1
  • Histological examination and immunohistochemistry differentiate between C-BSE and L-BSE strains. 1
  • Detection methods for central nervous tissue (CNT) markers like GFAP and NSE in meat products can aid in identifying potential contamination risks. 2
  • Management

  • No specific treatments exist for spongiform encephalopathy; management focuses on supportive care. 5
  • Monitoring vital signs and cardiovascular responses, noting increased blood pressure in affected cattle, may guide supportive interventions. 4
  • Special Populations

  • No specific guidance provided for pregnancy, pediatrics, or elderly populations in the abstracts. 145
  • Key Recommendations

  • Implement rigorous monitoring and surveillance programs for TSEs in small ruminants to detect both classical and atypical strains early. (Evidence: Moderate) 1
  • Utilize advanced detection methods, such as GC/MS for CNT markers, to ensure compliance with bans on specified risk materials in food products. (Evidence: Moderate) 2
  • Exercise caution with sedative administration in cattle suspected of having BSE due to altered responses, particularly noting prolonged sedation times and elevated blood pressure. (Evidence: Weak) 4
  • Continue research to clarify the zoonotic potential of BSE and refine protective measures for workers exposed to cattle. (Evidence: Expert opinion) 5
  • References

    1 Vallino Costassa E, D'Angelo A, Mazza M, Meloni D, Baioni E, Maurella C et al.. Clinical, pathological, and molecular features of classical and L-type atypical-BSE in goats. PloS one 2018. link 2 Lücker E, Biedermann W, Alter T, Hensel A. GC/MS detection of central nervous tissue as specified BSE risk material in meat products and meat and bone meals: thermal stability of markers in comparison with immunochemistry and RT-PCR. Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry 2010. link 3 Dyer C. "Unprecedented" row delays second phase of BSE inquiry. BMJ (Clinical research ed.) 1999. link 4 Braun U, Abgottspon S, Gubler E, Schweizer T. Decreased sedation by xylazine and high blood pressure in cows with BSE. The Veterinary record 1999. link 5 Hodgson E. BSE. An unlikely zoonosis. Occupational health; a journal for occupational health nurses 1990. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Clinical, pathological, and molecular features of classical and L-type atypical-BSE in goats.Vallino Costassa E, D'Angelo A, Mazza M, Meloni D, Baioni E, Maurella C et al. PloS one (2018)
    2. [2]
    3. [3]
      "Unprecedented" row delays second phase of BSE inquiry.Dyer C BMJ (Clinical research ed.) (1999)
    4. [4]
      Decreased sedation by xylazine and high blood pressure in cows with BSE.Braun U, Abgottspon S, Gubler E, Schweizer T The Veterinary record (1999)
    5. [5]
      BSE. An unlikely zoonosis.Hodgson E Occupational health; a journal for occupational health nurses (1990)

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