[Wilson's disease in a Saudi Arabian female patient. Rapid changes in cerebral x-ray computed tomography]

Reports on Wilson's disease from Arab countries in the Middle East are rare, while the high frequency of consanguineous marriages should increase the prevalence of autosomal recessive diseases. The case of a 20-year old woman, born from first degree cousins in a relatively isolated area of Saudi Arabia, is reported. The presentation initially led to the diagnosis of catatonic schizophrenia but neurological deterioration occurred rapidly. Brain CT was normal 2 months after the clinical onset of the disease but showed necrosis of both putamens 15 months later. Diagnostic difficulties and the rapid brain CT changes are commented.