Crazy Cow

Overview of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy

Overview

A cow exhibiting symptoms of BSE

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as Mad Cow Disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects cattle. It is caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that lead to brain damage in affected animals. BSE is part of a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs).

Pathophysiology

BSE is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal prion proteins in the brain tissue of cattle. These prions induce normal proteins to misfold, leading to the formation of sponge-like holes in the brain. This results in neurological symptoms such as changes in behavior, coordination problems, and eventually death.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission of BSE is through the consumption of contaminated feed. Cattle can become infected by ingesting feed that contains the remains of other cattle that were infected with BSE. This practice of feeding cattle with meat and bone meal was a significant factor in the spread of the disease.

Symptoms

Cattle affected by BSE may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:

• Changes in temperament, such as nervousness or aggression
• Abnormal posture
• Lack of coordination and difficulty walking
• Decreased milk production
• Weight loss despite a good appetite

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of BSE is typically confirmed post-mortem through examination of brain tissue. Histopathological analysis reveals the characteristic spongiform changes in the brain. In live animals, diagnosis is challenging and often based on clinical signs and exclusion of other diseases.

Prevention and Control

BSE has significant implications for public health and agriculture.

To prevent the spread of BSE, many countries have implemented strict regulations on animal feed, prohibiting the use of ruminant-derived protein in cattle feed. Surveillance programs and testing of cattle for BSE are also important components of control measures.

Impact on Human Health

BSE is of particular concern because it is linked to a variant form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) in humans. vCJD is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease that is believed to be caused by the consumption of BSE-contaminated beef products.

Related pages

• Prion
• Transmissible spongiform encephalopathy
• Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
• Neurodegenerative disease