Wilson's disease


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Wilson's disease


Wilson's disease is a rare inherited disorder that causes a buildup of copper in the liver and other organs of the body, most often the brain, kidneys, and eyes. It most often occurs in teenagers and young adults.

Wilson's disease can be treated with a diet low in copper and by taking medication that removes copper from the body. Treatment is usually successful when it begins before serious liver or brain damage has occurred. In some cases of liver damage, the person may need a liver transplant.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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