Wilson's Disease

Wilson's disease causes the body to retain copper. The liver of a person who has Wilson's disease does not release copper into bile as it should. Bile is a liquid produced by the liver that helps with digestion. As the intestines absorb copper from food, the copper builds up in the liver and injures liver tissue. Eventually, the damage causes the liver to release the copper directly into the bloodstream, which carries the copper throughout the body. The copper buildup leads to damage in the kidneys, brain, and eyes. If not treated, Wilson's disease can cause severe brain damage, liver failure, and death.

Wilson's disease is hereditary. Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 6 and 20 years, but can begin as late as age 40. The most characteristic sign is the Kayser-Fleischer ring, a rusty brown ring around the cornea of the eye that can be seen only through an eye exam.

Symptoms of Wilson's disease 

• Wilson's disease can mimic any form of acute or chronic liver disease. Possible symptoms include abdominal pain and yellowing of the skin (jaundice). Sometimes, the liver damage progresses without any obvious symptoms until cirrhosis develops. In the advanced stages of disease, more serious symptoms, such as anemia or the vomiting of blood, can occur. 
  
• The most common neurological signs and symptoms in people with Wilson's disease are tremors and muscle spasticity. Speech problems may also occur. 
  
• Wilson's disease can cause abrupt personality changes and inappropriate behavior. Sometimes, signs and symptoms in school-age children, such as depression, erratic behavior or failing school performance, are mistaken for behavioral problems. 

Wilson's disease requires lifelong treatment. If the disorder is detected early and treated correctly, a person with Wilson's disease can enjoy completely normal health.

Wilson's Disease Symptoms to W