Wilson'S disease presenting with obsessive-compulsive disorder

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Genetics

Background:

• Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism.
• Psychiatric symptoms are common in Wilson's disease, often leading to initial misdiagnosis.
• Obsessive-compulsive symptoms are a rare but documented manifestation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of recognizing Wilson's disease in psychiatric patients.
• To describe a rare case of Wilson's disease presenting with obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
• To discuss the neurobiological underpinnings of obsessive-compulsive disorder in Wilson's disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Wilson's disease and psychiatric presentations.
• Case report detailing a patient with Wilson's disease and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
• Discussion of basal ganglia involvement in obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Main Results:

• Approximately 20% of Wilson's disease cases are initially seen by psychiatrists.
• Misdiagnosis as primary psychiatric illness occurs in reported cases.
• Obsessive-compulsive symptoms represent a rare association with Wilson's disease.

Conclusions:

• Psychiatrists require thorough knowledge of Wilson's disease for accurate initial diagnosis.
• Recognition of Wilson's disease can prevent prolonged misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
• The basal ganglia may play a significant role in the development of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in Wilson's disease.