Wilson's Disease

Copper is an essential nutrient for the body, but in the case of Wilson’s disease, there is more copper in the body than there should be.

Wilson’s disease

Wilson’s disease is a rare condition that causes the copper to build up in different organs in the body, which causes several problems.

Causes of Wilson’s disease

• Wilson’s disease occurs due to a mutation in a certain gene that’s responsible for removing extra copper from the body, and it’s an inherited disorder.

Symptoms of Wilson’s disease

Symptoms of Wilson disease might differ between patients and depending on the affected organ. They generally include:

• Loss of appetite.
• Fatigue.
• Jaundice.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Itchy skin.
• Edema in the legs or abdomen.
• Kayser-Fleischer rings, which are golden-brown or copper-colored rings around the irises of the eyes
• Muscle stiffness and uncontrolled movements.
• Swallowing and speaking problems.
• Sleeping problems.
• Depression and mood and personality changes.

Complications of Wilson’s disease

• Liver cirrhosis.
• Liver failure.
• Kidney problems.
• Chronic nervous system issues, like tremors and involuntary muscle movements.
• Blood problems, like hemolytic anemia.
• Mental health issues, like psychosis and bipolar disorder.

Diagnosis of Wilson’s disease

• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests.
• Liver biopsy.
• Eye exam.

Treatment of Wilson’s disease

• Medications.
• Following a low-copper diet.
• Taking zinc supplements because it prevents the absorption of copper from the intestines.