We were contacted during the week by a very concerned former patient of Beaumont Hospital, who has been affected by the recent CJD alert.
On 19th July, Beaumont Hospital confirmed that one of their patients has been diagnosed with Cruetfeldt Jakob Disease (CJD). It appears that surgical instruments used in that patient’s operation were used in subsequent operations. The instruments were said to be sterilised but in the case of CJD, normal sterilisation techniques are not sufficient and special measures must be taken. It appears that those special measures were not taken and up to 20 people who had surgery subsequent to the infected patient could be at risk of developing the disease.
Cruetfeldt Jakob Disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that is incurable and invariably fatal. Although CJD is not related to BSG, it is commonly known as the human form equivalent of mad cow disease. Symptoms associated with CJD include progressive dementia, memory loss, personality changes and hallucinations. While those affected by the disease can live with symptoms for many years, unfortunately the majority of people affected die within a year of the symptoms starting, usually from an infection. This is because the immobility caused by the onset of CJD make patients vulnerable to infection.
We understand that there is no single diagnostic test for CJD and neurological examinations and tests are usually undertaken to eliminate possible other causes of symptoms, such as dementia, which is treatable. There is currently no cure for CJD. Treatment can only be administered in order to relieve symptoms.
The possible exposure to this very serious and life-threatening disease is obviously of extreme concern to those 20 patients affected. Beaumont Hospital have confirmed that they have contacted all of the affected individuals and have set up a help line to advise anybody concerned. The help line number is 1800302602. Certainly the individual we are in contact with is understandably extremely concerned and distressed to hear of this development and is taking our advice on the matter.
Rebecca Keatinge
Brophy Solicitors
