Wilson's Disease
What is the Long Term Prognosis?
Wilson’s Disease requires lifelong treatment. However, if diagnosed early or while asymptomatic, individuals who start and continue drug treatment can prevent all complications of the disease including the reversal of neurological and psychiatric symptoms and some aspects of liver damage. For those individuals with Wilson’s Disease who have cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease, liver transplantation may be necessary.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used in any other manner. This information is not intended to substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.
References
American Liver Foundation “Wilson Disease” http://www.liverfoundation.org/abouttheliver/info/wilson/. Retrieved March 10, 2011
Mayo Clinic “Wilson’s Disease” http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/wilsons-disease/DS00411. Retrieved March 10, 2011
Medline Plus “Wilson Disease” http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/wilsondisease.html. Retrieved March 10, 2011
Medscape Today “Wilson’s Disease: Treatment and Management” http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/543866_6. Retrieved March 10, 2011
Natural Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke “Wilson’s Disease” http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/wilsons/wilsons.htm. Retrieved March 10, 2011
Palmer, M.D., Melissa. Dr. Melissa Palmer’s Guide to Hepatitis & Liver Disease. New York: Avery Trade, 2004
Worman, M.D. Howard J. The Liver Disorders and Hepatitis Sourcebook. McGraw-Hill, 2006