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Wilson's Disease
Wilson's disease is a rare inherited condition where copper builds up in the body, especially the liver and brain, because the body cannot remove it properly. Early treatment prevents damage.
Causes & risk factors
- An inherited faulty gene (passed on from both parents)
- The body cannot clear copper into bile
- Copper builds up in the liver, then the brain and eyes
- Usually appears between childhood and young adulthood
Common symptoms
- Tiredness
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin
- Tummy pain or swelling
- Tremor or clumsiness
- Slurred speech or changes in behaviour
- Golden-brown rings around the eyes (Kayser-Fleischer rings)
Tests & diagnosis
- Serum ceruloplasmin (copper-carrying protein)
- 24-hour urine copper
- LFT
- Eye examination (slit lamp) for copper rings
- Genetic testing and liver biopsy in some cases
Treatment & management
- Medicines that remove copper (chelating agents) or block its absorption (zinc)
- A low-copper diet — avoid liver, shellfish, nuts and chocolate
- Lifelong treatment and monitoring
- Screening of close family members
- Liver transplant for severe liver failure
When to see a doctor urgently
- Yellow eyes or skin, or unexplained liver problems in a young person
- A new tremor, speech or movement changes
- Changes in behaviour or mood with liver signs
- A family history of the disease
Frequently asked questions
Can Wilson's disease be treated?
Yes. With lifelong copper-lowering treatment and a low-copper diet, most people do very well. Early diagnosis, before organ damage, gives the best outcome.
Is Wilson's disease inherited?
Yes. It is passed on when a child inherits a faulty copper gene from both parents. Siblings of an affected person should be screened.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.