Abstract: A fluorescent spectroscopic method and apparatus for real time direct detection of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies in central nervous system tissue by monitoring the fluorescence of intrinsic markers in the tissue by illuminating the tissue with UV or visible light having an appropriate wavelength, and the resulting emission spectra is detected and examined in the region from 350 to 650 nm. A higher intensity in this region is indicative of infected tissue. The apparatus and method would not interfere with existing slaughterhouse line speeds or procedures, and could be used on live animals.