What does BSE mean in MEDICAL

BSE is caused by the accumulation of a misfolded protein, called a prion, in the brains of infected animals. Prions can form when normal proteins become misfolded. The exact cause of this misfolding is still unknown; however, the presence of BSE appears to be linked to the feeding of infected feed containing rendered ruminant-derived protein products to susceptible animals.

Humans may contract BSE through contact with an infected animal or through consuming products derived from an infected animal, such as beef products contaminated with prions.

There is currently no treatment for BSE; however, safety measures are in place to reduce its spread and prevent human exposure to infected meat products or contact with an affected animal. These include laws prohibiting the sale of certain beef products and regular testing for signs of the disease among livestock herds.

Symptoms associated with BSE can vary, but typically include changes in behavior such as aggression, depression, or other neurological issues including difficulty standing or walking properly. Other signs may include weight loss, fearfulness or lack of interest in food as well as drooling and excessive salivation.

In rare cases, humans have been known to develop a form of the disease called variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD), which is thought to be linked to consuming meat from an infected cow. This condition usually presents itself within 10 years after consuming contaminated meat.