Can patients with prion disease eat meals together with their family members?

Generally, individuals with prion disease can share meals with family members. However, if someone has oral lesions, the prion protein may be transmitted through blood from the damaged oral tissue during shared meals.

Prion disease is caused by infection and is a type of central nervous system disorder that can be transmitted via blood, the digestive tract, or iatrogenic routes, leading to impaired brain function and symptoms such as myoclonus and dementia. While it is generally safe for patients with prion disease to eat with their families, transmission could occur if a family member has open sores or breaks in the mouth, as the prion might enter through blood exposed in these oral wounds, potentially causing infection. The most common prion disease in humans is Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), which typically presents with progressive dementia. As the disease advances, patients may also experience seizures.

If any symptoms suggestive of prion disease are observed, it is recommended to seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital. After identifying the exact cause, an appropriate treatment plan should be initiated.