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Published on: April 28, 2023
Arthropathic presentation of Wilson's disease
A K Misra1, A Biswas, G Ganguly
1Department of Neuromedicine, Bangur Institute of Neurology and I.P.G.M.E&R, Kolkata, India.
Wilson's disease (WD) can manifest with joint pain and tremors in young individuals. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing this genetic disorder affecting the liver and brain.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare inherited disorder of copper metabolism.
- It typically presents with hepatic, neurologic, or psychiatric symptoms.
- Musculoskeletal manifestations are less commonly recognized as initial symptoms.
Observation:
- A young patient presented with polyarthritis affecting small and large limb joints.
- Later, tremors developed, impacting all four extremities.
- The patient's clinical presentation prompted further investigation.
Findings:
- Diagnostic investigations, including genetic studies, confirmed Wilson's disease (WD).
- The genetic analysis identified specific mutations associated with WD.
- Biochemical tests indicated abnormal copper accumulation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering WD in young patients with unexplained polyarthritis.
- Neurological symptoms like tremors can be a presenting feature of WD.
- Timely diagnosis of WD is essential for effective treatment and preventing irreversible organ damage.
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