Wilson's Disease is a rare inherited disorder in which the body can't properly eliminate excess copper. Instead, copper accumulates in the liver, brain, eyes and other organs, leading to progressive damage. Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent serious complications and promote long-term health.
Symptoms vary depending on age and which organs are affected. Common signs include:
Wilson's Disease is caused by mutations in the ATP7B gene, which disrupts the normal removal of copper from the body. As a result:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we offer specialized, patient-centered care for Wilson's Disease. From precise diagnostics-including blood and urine copper tests, liver imaging, and eye exams-to individualized treatment plans with chelation therapy, zinc supplementation, and a low-copper diet, our multidisciplinary team of hepatologists, neurologists, and dietitians is committed to monitoring your progress and optimizing your health. Ready to take control of Wilson's Disease? Book your appointment today and let us help you live a full, healthy life.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Wilson's Disease is a genetic disorder in which the body cannot properly eliminate excess copper, leading to its buildup in organs like the liver and brain.
Diagnosis involves blood tests for copper and ceruloplasmin levels, 24-hour urine copper measurements, eye exams for Kayser-Fleischer rings, and imaging or liver biopsy when needed.
There is no cure, but with lifelong treatment-including chelation therapy, zinc therapy, and a low-copper diet-patients can manage the condition effectively.
With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, most people with Wilson's Disease can expect a normal life expectancy and maintain good long-term health.
Hepatolenticular degeneration refers to the combined liver ("hepato") and brain ("lenticular") damage caused by copper accumulation in Wilson's Disease.
A low-copper diet helps limit additional copper intake. Patients should avoid high-copper foods like shellfish, nuts, liver, chocolate, and mushrooms.
Consult a gastroenterologist if you experience liver dysfunction, neurological symptoms, or have a family history of Wilson's Disease for early evaluation and management.
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our multidisciplinary team of hepatologists, neurologists, and dietitians specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Wilson's Disease.
Some patients may experience side effects such as skin rashes, gastrointestinal upset, or blood count changes. Regular monitoring helps manage and adjust therapy.
Follow-up visits are typically scheduled every 3 to 6 months to track copper levels, assess treatment efficacy, and monitor for potential side effects.
