Wilson's disease natural history, complications and prognosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ahmed Elsaiey, MBBCH [2]

If left untreated, Wilson’s disease will lead to death as the copper accumulation in the liver and brain will lead to cirrhosis and severe dystonia respectively. Common complications of Wilson’s disease include hepatocellular carcinoma, renal failure, and persistent neurological manifestations. Prognosis of Wilson’s disease is usually good in case of early detection and proper treatment.

• The symptoms of Wilson’s disease usually develop between age of 5 and 35 years. However, the symptoms can be presented at any age onset.
• If left untreated, Wilson’s disease will lead to death. The copper accumulation in the liver and the brain will end up with cirrhosis and severe dystonia respectively. ^[1]

• Common complications of Wilson’s disease include the following:
  • Cirrhosis
  • Hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Persistent the neurological manifestations
  • Renal complications as kidney stones and renal failure
  • Hemolytic anemia

• Prognosis of Wilson’s disease is usually good with early detection and proper treatment except in the severely advanced patients.