Wilson's Disease
Alternate Names : Hepatolenticular Degeneration
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Wilson's Disease Treatment
The goals of treatment are to reduce the amount of copper in the tissues and to manage the symptoms of the disorder. Treatment must be lifelong.
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is used to counteract nervous tissue damage. Potassium or sodium supplements may be given before meals to reduce the amount of copper that is absorbed from foods.
Penicillamine is a medication that helps move copper out of the tissues and causes it to be excreted from the body in the urine. Corticosteroids such as prednisone may be used if the person cannot tolerate penicillamine.
A low-copper diet may be recommended, including avoiding mushrooms, nuts, chocolate, dried fruit, liver, and shellfish. Distilled water may be suggested because most tap water flows through copper pipes. Avoid using copper cooking utensils.
Symptoms are treated as appropriate, including exercises or physical therapy, and protective measures for people who are confused or unable to care for themselves.
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