Understanding the Liver
WILSON’S DISEASE
Wilson disease is a rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder of copper metabolism that is characterized by excessive deposition of copper in the liver, brain, and other issues.
SIGNS OF FULMINANT HEPATIC FAILURE
• Ascites and prominent abdominal veins
• Spider nevi
• Palmar erythema
• Digital clubbing
• Hematemesis
• Jaundice
MAJOR PATTERNS OF HEPATIC INVOLVEMENT
• Chronic active hepatitis
• Cirrhosis (the most common initial presentation)
• Fulminant hepatic failure
SYMPTOMS
The signs and symptoms of Wilson’s disease vary widely, depending on which organ is affected. They can be mistaken for other diseases or conditions. Wilson’s disease can only be detected by a doctor and through diagnostic testing.
A SLIT-LAMP EYE EXAM MAY SHOW
• Limited eye movement
• Rusty or brown-colored ring around the iris (Kayser-Fleischer rings)
