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Wilson's Disease
Wilson's disease is a rare inherited disorder causing copper buildup that damages the liver and brain. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs provides expert care-from blood tests and urine analysis to chelation therapy, zinc treatment, dietary guidance, and transplant referrals.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Mutation in the ATP7B gene affecting copper excretion
Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern
Positive family history of Wilson's disease
Onset of symptoms typically between ages 5 and 35
Low ceruloplasmin levels leading to impaired copper transport
Signs and Symptoms
Fatigue or general weakness
Abdominal pain or swelling
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Muscle stiffness, tremors, or shaking
Speech difficulties and poor coordination
Mood changes, including anxiety, depression, or irritability
Kayser-Fleischer rings (copper deposits in the cornea)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Wilson's Disease?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your family history, asks about epigastric pain, fatigue, jaundice, and neurologic symptoms, then performs a focused exam of the liver and nervous system.
Blood Tests
We measure serum ceruloplasmin (often low), total serum copper, and liver enzymes to assess for copper overload and liver injury.
24-Hour Urine Copper Test
This test quantifies how much copper your body is excreting-elevated levels strongly suggest Wilson's disease.
Eye Examination
An ophthalmologist looks for Kayser-Fleischer rings, the golden-brown copper deposits at the edge of the cornea.
Imaging Studies
Liver ultrasound checks for structural changes and rules out other causes of epigastric discomfort.
Brain MRI may reveal copper-related changes in the basal ganglia if neurologic signs are present.
Advanced Testing (If Needed)
A liver biopsy with quantitative copper assay can confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of liver damage.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Wilson's disease.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Avoid high-copper foods such as shellfish, nuts, chocolate, mushrooms, and organ meats
Increase daily water intake to support copper excretion
Work one-on-one with a GastroDoxs nutritionist for a personalized low-copper meal plan
2. Medications
Chelating agents (penicillamine or trientine) to bind excess copper and promote its removal
Zinc therapy to block intestinal copper absorption
Regular monitoring and dose adjustments to maintain safe copper levels
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Evaluation for liver transplantation referral when irreversible liver damage is present
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common Wilson's disease symptoms?
Early signs often include fatigue, abdominal pain, and jaundice. As copper accumulates in the brain, you may experience tremors, muscle stiffness, speech difficulties, or mood changes like anxiety and depression.
How is Wilson's disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves blood tests to check ceruloplasmin and copper levels, a 24-hour urine copper test, an eye exam for Kayser-Fleischer rings, and sometimes imaging or a liver biopsy to assess organ damage.
What treatments are offered at GastroDoxs?
Dr. Scott provides individualized plans that include dietary counseling to limit copper intake, chelating medications (penicillamine or trientine), zinc therapy to block copper absorption, and-if needed-referrals for liver transplant evaluation.
Can people with Wilson's disease live a full life?
Yes. With early detection, lifelong treatment, and regular follow-up care, most individuals manage copper levels effectively and lead normal, healthy lives.
Is treatment available in Houston?
Absolutely. Dr. Scott and his multidisciplinary team at GastroDoxs specialize in Wilson's disease care right here in Houston, offering expert diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.
