Wilson Disease Essay

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Wilson disease is caused by a mutation in the ATP7B gene. The ATP7B gene is responsible for the metabolism of coper in our bodies. ATP7B gives instructions for making copper-transporting ATPase proteins. These proteins help with the transport of metals into and out of cells. (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2016).
In most cases of Wilson disease the symptoms very, it all depends what body part is being affected by the high levels of copper. The liver is one of the main body parts that get affected, scarring can occur when the liver cell repair the damage that has been done due to excess copper. The more scarring the liver has the more difficult it will be to function. Since the liver is not able to push out the excess copper in the bile, it damages liver to the point that the high levels of copper get secreted in to the blood stream, the excess copper then travels to other organs (Liver Foundation, 2015).
Kayser-Flescher rings is a symptom that individuals develop that have had liver damage. Kayser-Flescher is a condition where a ring around the iris develop, the ring is a brown rust color. The color is due to the buildup of copper in the eyes. (U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 2014).
Wilson’s disease …show more content…

(U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 2014). Diet Changes are also given to patients, they must reduce the intake of mushrooms, liver, shellfish, nuts, and chocolate. (U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 2014). Liver transplant would be the last resorts for most individuals, physicians will decide if individuals would be a candidate for the transplant depending on the damage already done by the excess copper in the liver. (U.S Department of Health and Human Services,

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