Tremors in the Nerves
Investigating Kuru
Author(s)
Department of Neurobiology and Behavior
University of California, Irvine
acnichol@uci.edu
Abstract
This case study is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding (i.e., symptoms, mechanism, methods of diagnosis, transmission, and prevention) of the neurodegenerative disorder known as Kuru disease. Although Kuru is clinically rare, it provides an interesting “hook” for those interested in learning about other prion-related diseases that are more common (e.g., Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, bovine spongiform encephalopathy) while also providing a cautionary tale about the ease and risk of misdiagnosis. The case consists of two components: an introductory PowerPoint presentation (see Supplemental Materials) reviewing the history, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of Kuru as a result of infectious prions, and the case study handout in which students, working together in small groups, assume the role of administrative physicians reviewing a hypothetical case of a Kuru infected patient. The group activity highlights the detrimental effects of Kuru and how a misdiagnosis could easily result due to confusion with other prevalent neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s disease). The case is best suited for undergraduate students taking introductory human biology, cell biology, or other pre-health related courses.
Objectives
- Understand the symptoms, diagnosis, transmission, and prevention of Kuru.
- Understand the laboratory tests that could be administered for Kuru and why a spinal tap is the most effective method for diagnosis.
- Explain why Kuru can be easily misdiagnosed as a more prevalent neurodegenerative disease.
- Understand the mechanisms by which prions cause brain dysfunction.
Keywords
Kuru; kuru disease; prion disease; prions; neurodegenerative disease; Papua New Guinea; Fore;Topical Areas
N/AEducational Level
Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper divisionFormat
PDF, PowerPointType / Methods
Directed, Discussion, Role-PlayLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Biology (General) | Cell Biology | Epidemiology | Medicine (General) | Neuroscience | Physiology | Public Health | Science (General) |
Date Posted
03/04/2021Teaching Notes
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Teaching notes are intended to help teachers select and adopt a case. They typically include a summary of the case, teaching objectives, information about the intended audience, details about how the case may be taught, and a list of references and resources.
Supplemental Materials
The PowerPoint presentation below provides an overview of the history, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of Kuru as a result of infectious prions.
kuru.pptx
Answer Key
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