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Zhang X, Zhou L, Peng Y, He S, Mao Z, Cai J, Geng A, Yang H, Huang P. Melatonin alleviates brain injury in copper-laden rats: Underlying benefits for Wilson's disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 229:116490. [PMID: 39147330 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Copper serves as an indispensable cofactor for all living organisms, and its excessive accumulation has been associated with a variety of diseases. Wilson's disease (WD) serves as an illustrative example of copper toxicity in humans, frequently presenting with liver and/or neuropsychiatric symptoms. The current therapeutic drugs, penicillamine (PA) and zinc gluconate (ZnG), have constraints, and research on their combination efficacy remains insufficient. It has been reported that melatonin (MLT) plays a vital role in binding to transition metals and exhibits strong antioxidant capacity. To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of MLT and combined treatment, rats were randomly divided into the following seven groups: the control (Con) group, copper-laden model rat (Mod) group, PA-treated group, ZnG-treated group, MLT- treated group, PA-ZnG-treated group, and PA-MLT-treated group. Then potential mechanisms and targets were investigated using a combination of metabolomics and network pharmacology and verified by molecular docking and qPCR. The findings revealed that MLT and the combination significantly improved behavior, pathology and copper levels in copper-laden rats. The results of the metabolomics study showed that profoundly altered metabolites were identified, and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, pyruvate metabolism, citrate cycle (TCA cycle), and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis were explored. In addition, molecular docking showed that MLT had high binding affinity with key targets, and qPCR results revealed that MLT could reverse the mRNA expression of targets GOT2 and PKM2. It was concluded that MLT effectively improves brain injury in copper-laden rats, and this effect was linked with the altered features of the metabolite profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Zhang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Lihong Zhou
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yulong Peng
- Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing 101300, China
| | - Shiyu He
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Zhen Mao
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Jin Cai
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Aobo Geng
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing 101300, China
| | - Peili Huang
- School of Public Health and Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
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Lee EJ, Woo MH, Moon JS, Ko JS. Efficacy and safety of D-penicillamine, trientine, and zinc in pediatric Wilson disease patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:261. [PMID: 38982450 PMCID: PMC11234817 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03271-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Wilson disease (WD) is a rare genetic disease affecting copper metabolism and the biliary tract's copper excretion. Lifelong medication is necessary to prevent liver failure, neurological complications, and death. Although D-penicillamine (DPA), trientine, and zinc are used to treat WD, there is limited research on the long-term outcomes of these drugs, especially in children. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DPA, trientine, and zinc in patients diagnosed with WD during childhood. METHODS Ninety out of 92 patients were included in the analysis, excluding two patients who underwent liver transplantation without drug treatment due to an acute liver failure diagnosis. Treatment outcomes and reasons for discontinuation of therapy in 148 treatment blocks (37 DPA, 50 trientine, and 61 zinc) were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS The median age at diagnosis was 8.3 years. There was a statistically significant difference in drug changes due to treatment ineffectiveness among the three drugs: trientine (22/50, 44%), zinc (15/61, 25%), and DPA (2/37, 5%) (all p < 0.05). Regarding drug changes due to adverse effects, the rate was the highest for DPA, followed by zinc and trientine. There were significant differences between DPA and zinc, zinc and trientine (all p < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed between DPA and zinc (p = 0.22). CONCLUSIONS In pediatric WD, DPA, zinc, and trientine have therapeutic effects in that order. However, DPA and zinc are associated with more adverse effects compared to trientine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Joo Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Hyung Woo
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Soo Moon
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Sung Ko
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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3
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Ungureanu IM, Iesanu MI, Boboc C, Cosoreanu V, Vatra L, Kadar A, Ignat EN, Galos F. Addressing the Challenges in the Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Wilson's Disease-Case Report and Literature Review. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59040786. [PMID: 37109744 PMCID: PMC10144359 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder, in which the metabolism of copper is affected by metal accumulation in several organs that causes gradual organ degeneration. Since Wilson's initial description of WD over a century ago, there have been significant improvements in understanding and managing the condition. Nevertheless, the ongoing gap between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis highlights the difficulties in identifying this copper overload disorder early. Despite being a treatable condition, detecting WD early remains a challenge for healthcare professionals at all levels of care, likely due to its rarity. The key challenge is, therefore, to educate physicians on how to identify atypical or infrequent symptoms of WD, prompting them to consider the diagnosis more carefully. The purpose of our review is to draw attention to the difficulties associated with diagnosing pediatric WD, starting from our personal experience of a complex case and then examining relevant literature. In summary, the diagnosis of WD in children is intricate and requires a heightened level of suspicion to identify this infrequent condition. A thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of physicians, along with genetic testing, histopathologic examination, and specialized imaging studies, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Maria Ungureanu
- Department of Pediatrics, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mara Ioana Iesanu
- Department of Pediatrics, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Physiology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Catalin Boboc
- Department of Pediatrics, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Cosoreanu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Lorena Vatra
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anna Kadar
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Felicia Galos
- Department of Pediatrics, Marie Curie Emergency Children's Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatrics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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4
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Schilsky ML, Roberts EA, Bronstein JM, Dhawan A, Hamilton JP, Rivard AM, Washington MK, Weiss KH, Zimbrean PC. A multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of Wilson disease: 2022 Practice Guidance on Wilson disease from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2022:01515467-990000000-00207. [PMID: 36151586 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Schilsky
- Medicine and Surgery , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Eve A Roberts
- Paediatrics, Medicine, Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Jeff M Bronstein
- Neurology , University of California Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California , USA
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre and MowatLabs , King's College Hospital , London , UK
| | - James P Hamilton
- Medicine , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
| | - Anne Marie Rivard
- Food and Nutrition Services , Yale New Haven Hospital , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
| | - Mary Kay Washington
- Pathology, Immunology and Microbiology , Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Nashville , Tennessee , USA
| | | | - Paula C Zimbrean
- Psychiatry , Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven , Connecticut , USA
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5
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Avan A, Członkowska A, Gaskin S, Granzotto A, Sensi SL, Hoogenraad TU. The Role of Zinc in the Treatment of Wilson’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169316. [PMID: 36012580 PMCID: PMC9409413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Wilson’s disease (WD) is a hereditary disorder of copper metabolism, producing abnormally high levels of non-ceruloplasmin-bound copper, the determinant of the pathogenic process causing brain and hepatic damage and dysfunction. Although the disease is invariably fatal without medication, it is treatable and many of its adverse effects are reversible. Diagnosis is difficult due to the large range and severity of symptoms. A high index of suspicion is required as patients may have only a few of the many possible biomarkers. The genetic prevalence of ATP7B variants indicates higher rates in the population than are currently diagnosed. Treatments have evolved from chelators that reduce stored copper to zinc, which reduces the toxic levels of circulating non-ceruloplasmin-bound copper. Zinc induces intestinal metallothionein, which blocks copper absorption and increases excretion in the stools, resulting in an improvement in symptoms. Two meta-analyses and several large retrospective studies indicate that zinc is equally effective as chelators for the treatment of WD, with the advantages of a very low level of toxicity and only the minor side effect of gastric disturbance. Zinc is recommended as a first-line treatment for neurological presentations and is gaining acceptance for hepatic presentations. It is universally recommended for lifelong maintenance therapy and for presymptomatic WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Avan
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 93518-88415, Iran
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Członkowska
- 2nd Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, 02-957 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Susan Gaskin
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C3, Canada
| | - Alberto Granzotto
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences (DNISC), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Stefano L. Sensi
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences (DNISC), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies (ITAB), University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Tjaard U. Hoogenraad
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Shribman S, Marjot T, Sharif A, Vimalesvaran S, Ala A, Alexander G, Dhawan A, Dooley J, Gillett GT, Kelly D, McNeill A, Warner TT, Wheater V, Griffiths W, Bandmann O. Investigation and management of Wilson's disease: a practical guide from the British Association for the Study of the Liver. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:560-575. [PMID: 35429442 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00004-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Wilson's disease is an autosomal-recessive disorder of copper metabolism with hepatic, neurological, psychiatric, ophthalmological, haematological, renal, and rheumatological manifestations. Making a diagnosis can be challenging given that no single test can confirm or exclude the disease, and diagnostic delays are common. Treatment protocols vary and adverse effects, including paradoxical neurological worsening, can occur. In this Review, we provide a practical guide to the diagnosis of Wilson's disease. We include recommendations on indications for testing, how to interpret results, and when additional investigations are required. We also cover treatment initiation, ideally under the guidance of a specialist centre for Wilson's disease, and the principles behind long-term management. This guidance was developed by a multidisciplinary group of Wilson's disease experts formed through the British Association for the Study of the Liver. The guidance has been endorsed by the British Society of Gastroenterology and approved by the Association of British Neurologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Shribman
- Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Thomas Marjot
- Oxford Liver Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Abubakar Sharif
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Women and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sunitha Vimalesvaran
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre and Mowat Labs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK
| | - Aftab Ala
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford; Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Graeme Alexander
- University College London Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Anil Dhawan
- Paediatric Liver, GI and Nutrition Centre and Mowat Labs, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK
| | - James Dooley
- University College London Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Godfrey T Gillett
- Laboratory Medicine, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Deirdre Kelly
- Liver Unit, Birmingham Women and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Thomas T Warner
- Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | | | | | - Oliver Bandmann
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, UK.
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Wang FD, Zhou J, Chen EQ. Molecular Mechanisms and Potential New Therapeutic Drugs for Liver Fibrosis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:787748. [PMID: 35222022 PMCID: PMC8874120 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.787748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is the pathological process of excessive extracellular matrix deposition after liver injury and is a precursor to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is essentially a wound healing response to liver tissue damage. Numerous studies have shown that hepatic stellate cells play a critical role in this process, with various cells, cytokines, and signaling pathways engaged. Currently, the treatment targeting etiology is considered the most effective measure to prevent and treat liver fibrosis, but reversal fibrosis by elimination of the causative agent often occurs too slowly or too rarely to avoid life-threatening complications, especially in advanced fibrosis. Liver transplantation is the only treatment option in the end-stage, leaving us with an urgent need for new therapies. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms of liver fibrosis could identify new targets for the treatment. Most of the drugs targeting critical cells and cytokines in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis are still in pre-clinical trials and there are hardly any definitive anti-fibrotic chemical or biological drugs available for clinical use. In this review, we will summarize the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, focusing on the role of key cells, associated mechanisms, and signaling pathways, and summarize various therapeutic measures or drugs that have been trialed in clinical practice or are in the research stage.
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8
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Seetharaman J, Sarma MS. Chelation therapy in liver diseases of childhood: Current status and response. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:1552-1567. [PMID: 34904029 PMCID: PMC8637676 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i11.1552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chelation is the mainstay of therapy in certain pediatric liver diseases. Copper and iron related disorders require chelation. Wilson’s disease (WD), one of the common causes of cirrhosis in children is treated primarily with copper chelating agents like D-penicillamine and trientine. D-Penicillamine though widely used due its high efficacy in hepatic WD is fraught with frequent adverse effects resulting discontinuation. Trientine, an alternative drug has comparable efficacy in hepatic WD but has lower frequency of adverse effects. The role of ammonium tetra-thiomolybdate is presently experimental in hepatic WD. Indian childhood cirrhosis is related to excessive copper ingestion, rarely seen in present era. D-Penicillamine is effective in the early part of this disease with reversal of clinical status. Iron chelators are commonly used in secondary hemochromatosis of liver in hemolytic anemias. There are strict chelation protocols during bone marrow transplant. The role of iron chelation in neonatal hemochromatosis is presently not in vogue due to its poor efficacy and availability of other modalities of therapy. Hereditary hemochromatosis is rare in children and the use of iron chelators in this condition is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayendra Seetharaman
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post-graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Moinak Sen Sarma
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Post-graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Schroeder SM, Matsukuma KE, Medici V. Wilson disease and the differential diagnosis of its hepatic manifestations: a narrative review of clinical, laboratory, and liver histological features. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:1394. [PMID: 34733946 PMCID: PMC8506558 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-2264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective The goal of the present work is to provide an overview of the differential diagnosis of Wilson disease. Background Wilson disease is a rare condition due to copper accumulation primarily in the liver and brain. Although there is no definitive cure, current anti-copper treatments are associated with better outcomes if initiated early and if the diagnosis is made promptly. However, diagnostic delays are frequent and often Wilson disease represents a diagnostic challenge. The diagnosis ultimately relies on a combination of clinical, laboratory and genetic findings, and it is crucial that clinicians list Wilson disease in their differential diagnosis, especially in patients presenting with a hepatocellular pattern of liver injury. Some biochemical and liver histological features of Wilson disease overlap with those of more common conditions including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol-associated liver disease, and autoimmune hepatitis. In particular, hepatic steatosis, hepatocyte glycogenated nuclei, ballooning degeneration, and Mallory-Denk bodies are often identified in Wilson disease as well as more common liver diseases. In addition, the natural history of liver damage in Wilson disease and the risk of developing liver cancer are largely understudied. Methods We conducted an enlarged review of published papers on Wilson disease focusing on its diagnosis and distinctive clinical and liver pathology features in relation to common non-cholestatic liver diseases with the final goal in aiding clinicians in the diagnostic process of this rare but treatable condition. Conclusions Aside from markedly altered copper metabolism, Wilson disease has essentially no pathognomonic features that can distinguish it from more common liver diseases. Clinicians should be aware of this challenge and consider Wilson disease in patients presenting with a hepatocellular pattern of liver injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Schroeder
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Karen E Matsukuma
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Valentina Medici
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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10
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Zinc monotherapy for young patients with oligosymptomatic Wilson disease: A single center, retrospective study. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101623. [PMID: 33662781 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Few studies have focused on the treatment failure of zinc monotherapy for oligosymptomatic Wilson disease (WD) patients. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of zinc monotherapy in oligosymptomatic patients and to analyze the possible factors that may influence the outcome of this treatment. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of oligosymptomatic WD patients who received zinc monotherapy from the time of diagnosis. Then, the characteristics of patients who were treated with zinc monotherapy successfully and those who experienced treatment failure were investigated. RESULTS Forty oligosymptomatic WD patients were identified that have received zinc monotherapy as initial treatment, with a median age of 3.83 years at the time of diagnosis. 36 (90%) patients had abnormal alanine transaminase/aspartate transaminase levels at baseline. None of the patients became symptomatic during zinc monotherapy. 28 (70%, Group 1) patients were treated with zinc monotherapy successfully for a median period of 2.4 years. In Group 1, serum aminotransferase levels significantly decreased 6 and 12 months after zinc therapy compared to the baseline levels (P < 0.05). 12 (30%, Group 2) patients experienced treatment failure with zinc monotherapy due to uncontrolled serum liver enzyme levels, and d-penicillamine was combined. The baseline 24-hour urine copper levels before treatment were significantly higher in Group 2 compared to that in Group 1 (182.5 vs 90.92 μg /day, P = 0.018). Comparing the age at onset; ceruloplasmin, serum copper, ALT, and AST levels; and proportions of abdominal ultrasonography abnormality at baseline between Group 1 and 2 revealed no statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS We found that high initial 24 -h urinary copper levels may lead to treatment failure of zinc monotherapy in oligosymptomatic WD patients. It might be reasonable to follow up liver function tests more closely during zinc monotherapy and to begin combination treatment with chelators early in patients with high level of 24 -h urinary copper.
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11
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Socha P, Czlonkowska A, Janczyk W, Litwin T. Wilson's disease- management and long term outcomes. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2021; 56-57:101768. [PMID: 35331405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2021.101768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder of copper metabolism leading to liver or brain injury due to accumulation of copper. Diagnosis is based on: clinical features, biochemical tests including plasma ceruloplasmin concentration, 24h urinary copper excretion, copper content in the liver, and molecular analysis. Pharmacological therapy comprises chelating agents (penicillamine, trientine) and zinc salts which seem to be very effective. Still, poor compliance is a major problem. Adolescents and patients with psychiatric disorders usually have problems with adherence to treatment. As transition is a vulnerable period transition ''training'' should start before the planned transfer, preferably already in early adolescence in cooperation between adult and pediatric clinics. Response to treatment is assessed based on physical examination, normal liver function tests and monitoring of copper metabolism markers. Liver transplantation has a well-defined role in Wilsonian acute hepatic failure according to the prognostic score. The long-term survival in WD patients seems to be very similar as for the general population if disease is early diagnosed and correctly treated. WD patients with a longer delay from diagnosis to therapy and who present with neurological and psychiatric symptoms have worse quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Socha
- The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
| | | | | | - Tomasz Litwin
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
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12
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Considerations for optimizing Wilson's disease patients' long-term follow-up. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2021; 45:146-154. [PMID: 34052403 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Wilson's disease is a sistemic genetic disease caused by the excessive accumulation of copper. The first and main involvement is in the liver, which can range from mild and transient elevation of transaminases to the onset of an overt cirrhosis or acute liver failure. It is known that up to 20-30% of these patients may evolve to liver cirrhosis during follow-up. In clinical practice, liver fibrosis is assessed mainly by using indirect and non-invasive tools (laboratory tests, liver elastography, ultrasound), similar to other prevalent chronic liver diseases. However, despite the fact that liver elastography is a valuable tool in general hepatology, the evidence of its usefulness and accuracy in Wilsońs disease is scarce. This review summarizes the available scientific data and their limitations in Wilson's disease.
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13
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Copper Toxicity Is Not Just Oxidative Damage: Zinc Systems and Insight from Wilson Disease. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9030316. [PMID: 33804693 PMCID: PMC8003939 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9030316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Essential metals such as copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are important cofactors in diverse cellular processes, while metal imbalance may impact or be altered by disease state. Cu is essential for aerobic life with significant functions in oxidation-reduction catalysis. This redox reactivity requires precise intracellular handling and molecular-to-organismal levels of homeostatic control. As the central organ of Cu homeostasis in vertebrates, the liver has long been associated with Cu storage disorders including Wilson Disease (WD) (heritable human Cu toxicosis), Idiopathic Copper Toxicosis and Endemic Tyrolean Infantile Cirrhosis. Cu imbalance is also associated with chronic liver diseases that arise from hepatitis viral infection or other liver injury. The labile redox characteristic of Cu is often discussed as a primary mechanism of Cu toxicity. However, work emerging largely from the study of WD models suggests that Cu toxicity may have specific biochemical consequences that are not directly attributable to redox activity. This work reviews Cu toxicity with a focus on the liver and proposes that Cu accumulation specifically impacts Zn-dependent processes. The prospect that Cu toxicity has specific biochemical impacts that are not entirely attributable to redox may promote further inquiry into Cu toxicity in WD and other Cu-associated disorders.
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Zhou XX, Pu XY, Xiao X, Chen DB, Wu C, Li XH, Liang XL. Observation on the changes of clinical symptoms, blood and brain copper deposition in Wilson disease patients treated with dimercaptosuccinic acid for 2 years. J Clin Neurosci 2020; 81:448-454. [PMID: 33222961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2020.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical symptoms, brain copper deposition changes of Meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) and penicillamine therapy in patients with Wilson disease (WD) within 2 years. METHODS 68 drug-naive patients with WD were enrolled. 10 WD patients treated with zinc gluconate alone were used as the control group. Neurological symptoms were scored using the modified Young Scale. Liver function tests, copper indices and sensitive weighted imaging (SWI) examination were collected. The values of corrected phase (CP) were collected. WD patients were treated with DPA (group 1) or DMSA (group 2) for two years, and followed up every 2 months. RESULTS The ratio of neurological improvement in group 2 was higher than that in group 1 (P = 0.029). Higher rate of neurologic worsening was noticed in patients treated with DPA vs DMSA (P = 0.039). The post-treatment neurological score of DMSA group was lower than that of Zn group (P = 0.037). Hepatic function in 63.3% of patients was stable, while 16.7% was improved, and 20% was deteriorated, after DMSA therapy. Urinary copper levels were lower 1 month (p = 0.032), 4 months (p = 0.041), 12 months (p = 0.037) after initiation of treatment in group 2 than in group 1. At the first year of treatment, the CP values in globus pallidus and substantia nigra in group 2 were higher than those in group 1 (P = 0.034,0.039). At the second year of treatment, the CP values of substantia nigra in group 2 were higher (P = 0.041). Discontinuation was more common in patients on DPA therapy (P = 0 0.032). CONCLUSIONS DMSA could remove metal from brain tissue faster than DPA. DMSA is effective for neurologic symptoms, while the outcome for hepatic symptoms is not entirely satisfactory. DMSA therapy is better tolerated than DPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Xue Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China.
| | - Xiao-Yong Pu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Urology, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xia Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Ding-Bang Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xun-Hua Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiu-Ling Liang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, No. 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Management of Wilson Disease Diagnosed in Infancy: An Appraisal of Available Experience to Generate Discussion. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2020; 70:547-554. [PMID: 31899725 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000002608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Increased access to molecular genetic testing is changing the demographics for diagnosing inherited disorders and imposing new challenges for medical management. Wilson disease (WD), typically diagnosed in older children and adults, can now be detected in utero and in infants (children younger than 24 months, including neonates) via genetic testing. An evidence-based approach to management of these neonates and extremely young children, who are typically asymptomatic, has been hampered by lack of clinical experience. We present a case of an infantile diagnosis of WD, review available experience, and discuss current trends in antenatal genetic testing of parents and fetus that may lead to a very early diagnosis of WD. Based on physiological and nutritional considerations, we propose an algorithmic approach to management of infantile WD as a starting point for further discussion. Future collaboration amongst specialists is essential to identify evidence-based approaches and best practice for managing treatment of infants with genetically diagnosed WD.
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A study of susceptibility-weighted imaging in patients with Wilson disease during the treatment of metal chelator. J Neurol 2020; 267:1643-1650. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-09746-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Leung M, Wu Lanzafame J, Medici V. Switching Pharmacological Treatment in Wilson Disease: Case Report and Recommendations. J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep 2020; 8:2324709619896876. [PMID: 31920114 PMCID: PMC6956597 DOI: 10.1177/2324709619896876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Available treatments for Wilson disease (WD) prevent longterm complications of copper accumulation. Current anti-copper agents include zinc salts, penicillamine, and trientine. Patients with WD may switch between the agents for a number of reasons. Due to the different mechanisms of action between the copper chelators and zinc salts, transitioning could require a period of overlap and increased monitoring. There are no large studies that investigate the best transition strategies between agents. In this article, we review the treatments for WD and how to monitor for treatment efficacy. Case Summary. The patient had been diagnosed with WD for over 20 years prior to establishing care in our Hepatology Clinic. During his initial course, he was transitioned from penicillamine to zinc due to evidence suggesting penicillamine had greater adverse effects in the long term. Later, he was switched to trientine. His liver enzymes and 24-hour urine copper were monitored. During these years, he intermittently had some financial hardship, requiring him to be on penicillamine rather than trientine. He also had developed acute kidney injury. Overall, his liver disease remained under control and he never had signs of decompensated cirrhosis, but had fluctuations of liver enzymes over the years. Conclusion. Anti-copper treatment for WD has to be tailored to medication side effects profile, patient's chronic and emerging comorbidities, as well as costs. Transitioning regimens is often challenging, and it requires closer monitoring, with no predictors of response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia Leung
- University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Appenzeller-Herzog C, Mathes T, Heeres MLS, Weiss KH, Houwen RHJ, Ewald H. Comparative effectiveness of common therapies for Wilson disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled studies. Liver Int 2019; 39:2136-2152. [PMID: 31206982 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Wilson disease (WD) is a rare disorder of copper metabolism. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the comparative effectiveness and safety of common treatments of WD. METHODS We included WD patients of any age or stage and the study drugs D-penicillamine, zinc salts, trientine and tetrathiomolybdate. The control could be placebo, no treatment or any other treatment. We included prospective, retrospective, randomized and non-randomized studies. We searched Medline and Embase via Ovid, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and screened reference lists of included articles. Where possible, we applied random-effects meta-analyses. RESULTS The 23 included studies reported on 2055 patients and mostly compared D-penicillamine to no treatment, zinc, trientine or succimer. One study compared tetrathiomolybdate and trientine. Post-decoppering maintenance therapy was addressed in one study only. Eleven of 23 studies were of low quality. When compared to no treatment, D-penicillamine was associated with a lower mortality (odds ratio 0.013; 95% CI 0.0010 to 0.17). When compared to zinc, there was no association with mortality (odds ratio 0.73; 95% CI 0.16 to 3.40) and prevention or amelioration of clinical symptoms (odds ratio 0.84; 95% CI 0.48 to 1.48). Conversely, D-penicillamine may have a greater impact on side effects and treatment discontinuations than zinc. CONCLUSIONS There are some indications that zinc is safer than D-penicillamine therapy while being similarly effective in preventing or reducing hepatic or neurological WD symptoms. Study quality was low warranting cautious interpretation of our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tim Mathes
- Institute for Research in Operative Medicine, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marlies L S Heeres
- Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karl Heinz Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Medical University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roderick H J Houwen
- Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah Ewald
- University Medical Library, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Shribman S, Warner TT, Dooley JS. Clinical presentations of Wilson disease. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2019; 7:S60. [PMID: 31179297 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.04.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The main presenting features of Wilson disease, many of which mimic common hepatic and neurologic disorders, are discussed. There is a need for specialists in these and related fields to be aware of hints from within and, more importantly, outside their area of expertise that should alert them to consider the diagnosis. Delayed diagnosis and treatment are potentially damaging for the patient. The importance of recognising and promptly investigating Wilson disease at the initial presentation should be understood by all those who assess patients with hepatic or neurologic disorders and/or train others in their specialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Shribman
- Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Thomas T Warner
- Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - James S Dooley
- UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
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Aggarwal A, Bhatt M. Advances in Treatment of Wilson Disease. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018. [PMID: 29520330 PMCID: PMC5840318 DOI: 10.7916/d841881d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited neurometabolic disorder that results in excessive copper deposition in the liver and the brain, affecting children and young adults. Without treatment the disease is invariably fatal. Though treatments for WD have been available since the 1950s, the disease continues to be associated with considerable morbidity and mortality because of missed diagnosis, and delayed or inadequate treatment. In this paper we survey WD-related literature in order to review recent advances in WD treatment. Methods We performed a literature search using the PubMed database for articles relating to WD and its medical treatment. We reviewed the articles, and cross-references of relevant articles, to summarize the current practices for treatment of WD. Results The survey shows that if WD is properly treated, in most patients the liver can be stabilized, even severe neurological disability reversed, and patients can resume normal lives. Discussion Medical treatment for WD includes use of copper chelators (penicillamine, trientine, dimercaprol, dimercaptopropane sulfonate, and ammonium tetrathiomolybdate) and drugs that decrease gastrointestinal copper absorption. Our knowledge of the treatment approaches has benefited from the large systematic clinical studies that have been conducted over the last decade. For each drug used to treat WD, we surveyed its development, indication for use, dosing, efficacy, and adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Aggarwal
- Wilson Disease Clinic, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Mohit Bhatt
- Wilson Disease Clinic, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, Mumbai, India
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21
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Wilson's Disease in Children: A Position Paper by the Hepatology Committee of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2018; 66:334-344. [PMID: 29341979 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical presentations of Wilson's disease (WD) in childhood ranges from asymptomatic liver disease to cirrhosis or acute liver failure, whereas neurological and psychiatric symptoms are rare. The basic diagnostic approach includes serum ceruloplasmin and 24-hour urinary copper excretion. Final diagnosis of WD can be established using a diagnostic scoring system based on symptoms, biochemical tests assessing copper metabolism, and molecular analysis of mutations in the ATP7B gene. Pharmacological treatment is life-long and aims at removal of copper excess by chelating agents as D-penicillamine, trientine, or inhibition of intestinal copper absorption with zinc salts. Acute liver failure often requires liver transplantation. This publication aims to provide recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of WD in children. METHODS Questions addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of WD in children were formulated by a core group of ESPGHAN members. A systematic literature search on WD using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database from 1990 to 2016 was performed focusing on prospective and retrospective studies in children. Quality of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE system. Expert opinion supported recommendations where the evidence was regarded as weak. The ESPGHAN core group and ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee members voted on each recommendation, using the nominal voting technique.
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22
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Eda K, Mizuochi T, Iwama I, Inui A, Etani Y, Araki M, Hara S, Kumagai H, Hagiwara SI, Murayama K, Murakami J, Shimizu N, Kodama H, Yasuda R, Takaki Y, Yamashita Y. Zinc monotherapy for young children with presymptomatic Wilson disease: A multicenter study in Japan. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 33:264-269. [PMID: 28452067 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Few studies of zinc monotherapy for presymptomatic Wilson disease have focused on young children. We therefore evaluated long-term efficacy and safety of zinc monotherapy for such children and established benchmarks for maintenance therapy. METHODS We retrospectively and prospectively examined children under 10 years old with presymptomatic Wilson disease who received zinc monotherapy from time of diagnosis at 12 participating pediatric centers in Japan. RESULTS Twenty-four patients met entry criteria. Aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase decreased significantly beginning 1 month after initiation of treatment and usually remained under 50 U/L from 1 to 8 years of treatment. Twenty four-hour urinary copper decreased significantly at 6 months and usually remained under 75 μg/day and between 1 and 3 μg/kg/day for the remainder of the study. All patients continued to take zinc, and none became symptomatic. In patients under 6 years old who received 50 mg/day of zinc as an initial dose, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase significantly decreased at 1 month after initiation of treatment, as did γ-glutamyltransferase and 24-h urinary copper at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first multicenter study of zinc monotherapy for young children with presymptomatic Wilson disease. Such monotherapy proved highly effective and safe. Maintaining normal transaminase values (or values under 50 U/L when normalization is difficult) and 24-h urinary copper excretion between 1 and 3 μg/kg/day and under 75 μg/day is a reasonable goal. An initial dose of 50 mg/day is appropriate for patients under 6 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Eda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Mizuochi
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Itaru Iwama
- Department of Pediatrics, Okinawa Chubu Hospital, Uruma, Japan
| | - Ayano Inui
- Department of Pediatric Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Saiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuri Etani
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Nutrition, and Endocrinology, Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mariko Araki
- Department of Pediatrics, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Japan
| | - Shinya Hara
- Department of Pediatrics, Toyota Memorial Hospital, Toyota, Japan
| | - Hideki Kumagai
- Department of Pediatrics, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichiro Hagiwara
- Division of General Pediatrics, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kei Murayama
- Department of Metabolism, Chiba Children's Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Jun Murakami
- Division of Pediatrics and Perinatology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
| | - Norikazu Shimizu
- Department of Pediatrics, Toho University School of Medicine, Ohashi Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroko Kodama
- Department of Pediatrics, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Yasuda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Yugo Takaki
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Yushiro Yamashita
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
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Gupta P, Choksi M, Goel A, Zachariah U, Sajith KG, Ramachandran J, Chandy G, Kurian G, Rebekah G, Eapen CE. Maintenance zinc therapy after initial penicillamine chelation to treat symptomatic hepatic Wilson's disease in resource constrained setting. Indian J Gastroenterol 2018; 37:31-38. [PMID: 29457214 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-018-0829-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experience with zinc in treating symptomatic hepatic Wilson's disease (WD) is limited. AIM To study the efficacy of Penicillamine followed by zinc in treating symptomatic hepatic Wilson's disease. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed case records of 31 symptomatic hepatic WD patients for whom disease severity scores (Child's, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), Nazer's, and New Wilson Index (NWI) score) and 24-h urinary copper were compared at 3-time points-baseline at presentation, at transition from penicillamine to zinc and at end of follow up. RESULTS Thirty-one patients (median age 11 [5-24] years) with symptomatic hepatic WD were studied; ten had associated neuropsychiatric manifestations of WD. Penicillamine was changed to zinc sulfate either due to financial constraints (28 patients) or due to adverse effects of penicillamine (3 patients). At presentation (baseline), six patients belonged to Child's class A, five to Child's B, and 17 to Child's C. Duration of initial penicillamine chelation therapy was 134 (2-320) weeks, and of subsequent zinc therapy was 363 (35-728) weeks. There was a significant improvement in liver function tests and disease severity scores (Child's, MELD, Nazer's, and NWI score) at the transition from penicillamine to zinc compared to baseline. This improvement was maintained until the end of study period with 90% survival at 10 (2-20) years. Fifteen of the 17 Child's C cirrhotic patients showed significant improvement in disease severity scores from baseline until end of follow up. CONCLUSIONS Penicillamine followed by zinc may be a safe and effective treatment in resource-constrained setting for symptomatic hepatic WD patients in all grades of baseline disease severity. Some patients with decompensated cirrhosis due to WD may be managed with medical treatment, avoiding liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Gupta
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India.
| | - Mehul Choksi
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
| | - Ashish Goel
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
| | - Uday Zachariah
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
| | | | | | - George Chandy
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
| | - George Kurian
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
| | - Grace Rebekah
- Department of Biostatistics, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 632 004, India
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- University of Helsinki; Department of Public Health, POB 20; Tukholmankatu 8 B 2B Helsinki Finland FIN-00014
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Hemilä H, Fitzgerald JT, Petrus EJ, Prasad A. Zinc Acetate Lozenges May Improve the Recovery Rate of Common Cold Patients: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2017; 4:ofx059. [PMID: 28480298 PMCID: PMC5410113 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofx059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A previous meta-analysis of 3 zinc acetate lozenge trials estimated that colds were on average 40% shorter for the zinc groups. However, the duration of colds is a time outcome, and survival analysis may be a more informative approach. The objective of this individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis was to estimate the effect of zinc acetate lozenges on the rate of recovery from colds. METHODS We analyzed IPD for 3 randomized placebo-controlled trials in which 80-92 mg/day of elemental zinc were administered as zinc acetate lozenges to 199 common cold patients. We used mixed-effects Cox regression to estimate the effect of zinc. RESULTS Patients administered zinc lozenges recovered faster by rate ratio 3.1 (95% confidence interval, 2.1-4.7). The effect was not modified by age, sex, race, allergy, smoking, or baseline common cold severity. On the 5th day, 70% of the zinc patients had recovered compared with 27% of the placebo patients. Accordingly, 2.6 times more patients were cured in the zinc group. The difference also corresponds to the number needed to treat of 2.3 on the 5th day. None of the studies observed serious adverse effects of zinc. CONCLUSIONS The 3-fold increase in the rate of recovery from the common cold is a clinically important effect. The optimal formulation of zinc lozenges and an ideal frequency of their administration should be examined. Given the evidence of efficacy, common cold patients may be instructed to try zinc acetate lozenges within 24 hours of onset of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harri Hemilä
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - James T Fitzgerald
- Department of Learning Health Sciences, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Ananda Prasad
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
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Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited disorder mainly of hepatocellular copper disposition, due to dysfunction of the Wilson ATPase, a P1B-ATPase encoded by the gene ATP7B. In children, as in older age brackets, clinical disease is highly diverse. Although hepatic disease is the common presentation in children/adolescents, neurologic, psychiatric, and hematologic clinical presentations do occur. Very young children may have clinically evident liver disease due to WD. Early diagnosis, preferably when the child/adolescent is asymptomatic, is most likely to result in near-normal longevity with generally good health so long as the patient tolerates effective medication, is adherent to the lifelong treatment regimen, and has consistent access to the medication. Apart from a lively index of clinical suspicion on the part of physicians, biochemical tests including liver tests, serum ceruloplasmin, and basal 24-hour urinary copper excretion and genotype determination are key to diagnosis. Oral chelation treatment remains central to medical management, although zinc appears to be an attractive option for the presymptomatic child. Pediatric patients presenting with Wilsonian fulminant hepatic failure must be differentiated from those with decompensated cirrhosis, since the latter may respond to intensive medical interventions and not require liver transplantation. Recently identified WD-mimic disorders reveal important aspects of WD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve A Roberts
- Departments of Paediatrics, Medicine and Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Piotr Socha
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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Abstract
Zinc is an essential trace element playing fundamental roles in cellular metabolism. It acts mostly by binding a wide range of proteins, thus affecting a broad spectrum of biological processes, which include cell division, growth and differentiation. Zinc is critical to a large number of structural proteins, enzymatic processes, and transcription factors. Zinc deficiency can result in a spectrum of clinical manifestations, such as poor of appetite, loss of body hair, altered taste and smell, testicular atrophy, cerebral and immune dysfunction, and diminished drug elimination capacity. These are common symptoms in patients with chronic liver diseases, especially liver cirrhosis. The liver is the main organ responsible for the zinc metabolism which can be affected by liver diseases. On the other hand, zinc deficiency may alter hepatocyte functions and also immune responses in inflammatory liver diseases. Liver cirrhosis represents the most advanced stage of chronic liver diseases and is the common outcome of chronic liver injury. It is associated with energy malnutrition, with numerous metabolic disorders, such as hypoalbuminemia, with imbalance between branched-chain amino acids and aromatic amino acids, and with reduced zinc serum concentrations. All these processes can influence the clinical outcome of patients, such ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the present review, we summarize the emerging evidence on the pitoval role of zinc in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dirk Reinhold
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Leggio L, Ferrulli A, Mirijello A, Abenavoli L, Di Giuda D, Funiciello S, Rotoli M, Gasbarrini G, Addolorato G. Penicillamine-Related Lichenoid Dermatitis and Utility of Zinc Acetate in a Wilson Disease Patient with Hepatic Presentation, Anxiety and Spect Abnormalities. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2016; 20:185-90. [PMID: 17346443 DOI: 10.1177/039463200702000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wilson disease is an autosomal recessive disorder of hepatic copper metabolism with consequent copper accumulation and toxicity in many tissues and consequent hepatic, neurologic and psychiatric disorders. We report a case of Wilson disease with chronic liver disease; moreover, in our patient, presenting also with high levels of state anxiety without depression 99mTc-ECD-SPECT showed cortical hypoperfusion in frontal lobes, more marked on the left frontal lobe. During the follow-up of our patient, penicillamine was interrupted after the appearance of a lichenoid dermatitis, and zinc acetate permitted to continue the successful treatment of the patient without side-effects. In our case the therapy with zinc acetate represented an effective treatment for a Wilson disease patient in which penicillamine-related side effects appeared. The safety of the zinc acetate allowed us to avoid other potentially toxic chelating drugs; this observation is in line with the growing evidence on the efficacy of the drug in the treatment of Wilson disease. Since most of Wilson disease penicillamine-treated patients do not seem to develop this skin lesion, it could be conceivable that a specific genetic factor is involved in drug response. Further studies are needed for a better clarification of Wilson disease therapy, and in particular to differentiate specific therapies for different Wilson disease phenotypes.
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Li WJ, Chen C, You ZF, Yang RM, Wang XP. Current Drug Managements of Wilson's Disease: From West to East. Curr Neuropharmacol 2016; 14:322-5. [PMID: 26639459 PMCID: PMC4876588 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666151130222427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Wilson's disease (WD), also called hepatolenticular degeneration, is an autosomal recessive inheritance disorder of copper metabolism characterized by the multiple mutations in the ATP-ase 7B gene of chromosome 13q. About half of the WD patients have neurological or psychiatric symptoms. As WD is a kind of medicable or nearly curable neurodegenerative disease in the field of medicine, early consideration/examination and without delay/ life-long treatment usually lead to better prognoses. The drugs, also named as anticopper agents, are commonly used in clinics including D-penicillamine, trientine, sodium dimercaptosuccinate, dimercaptosuccinic acid, zinc and tetrathiomolybdate. This provides detailed reviews about these medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ren-Min Yang
- Institute of Neurology, Anhui College of TCM, Hefei, China, 230026.
| | - Xiao-Ping Wang
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University, China, 200080.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Zinc therapy is considered a good option in Wilson disease (WD), as a first-line treatment in presymptomatic children and a maintenance therapy after the initial chelator therapy. The aim of the study was to determine the practical use of zinc treatment in French pediatric centers. METHODS A national survey was conducted in the 6 French centers using zinc acetate to treat WD. Clinical and biological parameters, dosage, and outcome were recorded. RESULTS A total of 26 children were reported to be treated with zinc acetate, alone or in association with chelators. Of the 9 children (35%) who received zinc alone as a first-line therapy, 2 were switched to D-penicillamine because of inefficacy and 7 remained on zinc alone, but serum transaminase levels normalized in only 4 of them. Five children (19%) were initially treated with zinc in association with D-penicillamine (n = 4) or Trientine (n = 1) with good efficacy. Among the 12 children (46%) who received zinc as a maintenance therapy after D-penicillamine, no relapse of hepatic cytolysis occurred during a median follow-up of 5.2 years, but 2 of them were switched to Trientine because of zinc-related adverse effects. Epigastric pain was observed in 4 children, and a gastric perforation occurred in 1 child. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates poor efficacy of zinc as first-line therapy to control liver disease in half presymptomatic children and a high incidence of related gastrointestinal adverse effects in children with WD.
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Zuccoli G, Yannes MP, Nardone R, Bailey A, Goldstein A. Bilateral symmetrical basal ganglia and thalamic lesions in children: an update (2015). Neuroradiology 2015; 57:973-89. [DOI: 10.1007/s00234-015-1568-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Abstract
Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited disorder of chronic copper toxicosis characterized by excessive copper deposition in the body, primarily in the liver and the brain. It is a progressive disease and fatal if untreated. Excessive copper accumulation results from the inability of liver to excrete copper in bile. Copper is an essential trace metal and has a crucial role in many metabolic processes. Almost all of the body copper is protein bound. In WD, the slow but relentless copper accumulation overwhelms the copper chaperones (copper-binding proteins), resulting in high levels of free copper and copper-induced tissue injury. Liver is the central organ for copper metabolism, and copper is initially accumulated in the liver but over time spills to other tissues. WD has protean clinical manifestations mainly attributable to liver, brain, and osseomuscular impairment. Diagnosis of WD is challenging and based on combination of clinical features and laboratory tests. Identification of various high-frequency mutations identified in different population studies across the world has revived interest in developing DNA chips for rapid genetic diagnosis of WD. All symptomatic and all presymptomatic patients require lifelong decoppering with careful clinical tracking. Decoppering ensures that presymptomatic individuals remain symptom free. With judicious decoppering, given time, even patients with severe neurological disability improve and can return to normal life and resume school or work at par with their peers. Treatment regimens and tracking patients using the WD-specific Global Assessment Scale for WD (GAS for WD) are discussed.
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Huarte-Muniesa MP, Lacalle-Fabo E, Uriz-Otano J, Berisa-Prado S, Moreno-Laguna S, Burusco-Paternáin MJ. [Complexity of the diagnosis of Wilson disease in clinical practice: our experience in 15 patients]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2014; 37:389-96. [PMID: 24720933 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2014.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited disorder that causes copper (Cu) accumulation, leading to mainly liver, neurological and/or psychiatric manifestations. In the absence of some of the typical features, diagnosis of WD is difficult and is based on the combination of clinical, biochemical and genetic testing. The aim of this study was to illustrate the complexity of the approach to WD in daily clinical practice. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with WD, including the clinical presentation, histological and biochemical findings, and follow up after treatment. We also carried out genetic testing, and the Leipzig diagnostic score was applied. RESULTS We included 15 patients. Four were symptomatic, with liver (n=1), neurological (n=1), psychiatric (n=1) and mixed clinical manifestations (n=1), and 11 were presymptomatic, with elevated transaminases (n=8) and family study (n=3). We observed Kayser-Fleischer ring in 2 patients, both without neurologic symptoms. Ceruloplasmin ≤ 5 mg/dL was present in 73%, and 24-hour urinary Cu> 100 μg in 40%. Liver Cu was >250 μg/g.d.t. in 85% of the patients. The final diagnosis of WD was given by genetic testing (ATP7B gene mutations) in 5 patients with minimal disease features, including one symptomatic patient (psychiatric symptoms). We identified 5 previously reported mutations (p.M645R, p.R827W, p.H1069Q, p.P768L and p.G869R) and 3 unpublished mutations (p.L1313R, p.I1311T and p.A1179D); the most frequent mutation was p.M645R. After treatment, biochemical parameters (transaminases, urinary cooper) and symptoms improved, except in patients with neurological and psychiatric manifestations. CONCLUSIONS Our series illustrates the important role of genetic testing in the diagnosis of WD. The identification of the p.M645R mutation in most of our patients should be kept in mind in the molecular analysis of the ATP7B gene in our region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Uriz-Otano
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, España
| | | | - Sira Moreno-Laguna
- Servicio de Genética, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, España
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Ranucci G, Di Dato F, Spagnuolo MI, Vajro P, Iorio R. Zinc monotherapy is effective in Wilson's disease patients with mild liver disease diagnosed in childhood: a retrospective study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2014; 9:41. [PMID: 24661374 PMCID: PMC4234980 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-9-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wilson's disease (WD) evolves rapidly and is fatal if untreated. The treatment of WD patients with mild liver disease is not clearly defined. To address this issue, we evaluated long-term outcomes of three treatment regimens (D-penicillamine, zinc or both) in patients diagnosed in childhood. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated efficacy, compliance and reasons for treatment discontinuation in 42 WD patients (median age at diagnosis: 6 years; median follow-up: 12 years) with mild liver disease. Treatment duration for each treatment block until a medication change or completion of follow-up was analyzed. Events of change of treatment were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS Total discontinuations due to treatment failure or adverse events were more frequent in patients receiving D-penicillamine (45%) or combination (36%) therapy than in patients receiving zinc (12%) (P = .001 and P = .02, respectively). Treatment failure was more frequent on D-penicillamine (28%) and combination therapy (36%) than on zinc (12%); the difference was statistically significant only between zinc and combination therapy (P = .03). First-line zinc monotherapy controlled WD-related liver disease in 13/15 patients (87%); the two subjects that failed on zinc were poor adherent. Zinc was effective in 3/5 (60%) patients that failed on D-penicillamine and combination regimens. All 15 D-penicillamine responders that switched to zinc had good control of liver disease at a median follow-up of 13.1 years. Among 6 D-penicillamine non-responders that switched to zinc, 4 (67%) responded. At follow-up completion, only 5/42 (12%) patients failed. Adverse event-induced discontinuation was significantly more frequent in patients on D-penicillamine than in patients receiving zinc (P = .03). CONCLUSIONS Zinc monotherapy is effective in controlling WD-related liver disease both as first-line and as maintenance treatment in patients with mild liver disease diagnosed in childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Raffaele Iorio
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
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Zinc mono-therapy in pre-symptomatic Chinese children with Wilson disease: a single center, retrospective study. PLoS One 2014; 9:e86168. [PMID: 24475083 PMCID: PMC3901685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0086168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is no official consensus regarding zinc therapy in pre-symptomatic children with Wilson Disease (WD); more data is needed. Objective To investigate the safety and efficacy of zinc gluconate therapy for Chinese children with pre-symptomatic WD. Methods We retrospectively analyzed pre-symptomatic children receiving zinc gluconate in a single Chinese center specialized in pediatric hepatology. Short-term follow-up data on safety and efficacy were presented, and effects of different zinc dosages were compared. Results 30 children (21 males) aged 2.7 to 16.8 years were followed for up to 4.4 years; 26 (87%) children had abnormal ALT at baseline. Most patients (73%) received higher than the currently recommended dose of elemental zinc. Zinc gluconate significantly reduced mean ALT (p<0.0001), AST (p<0.0001), GGT (p<0.0001) levels after 1 month, and urinary copper excretion after 6 months (p<0.0054). Mean direct bilirubin levels dropped significantly at 1 month (p = 0.0175), 3 months (p = 0.0010), and 6 months (p = 0.0036). Serum zinc levels gradually increased and reached a significantly higher level after 6 months (p<0.0026), reflecting good compliance with the therapy. Complete blood count parameters did not change throughout the analysis period. 8 children experienced mild and transient gastrointestinal side effects. The higher zinc dose did not affect treatment response and was not associated with different or increased side effects when compared to conventional zinc dose. Conclusion In our cohort, zinc gluconate therapy for Chinese children with pre-symptomatic WD was effective, and higher initial dose of elemental zinc had the same level of efficacy as the conventional dose.
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Członkowska A, Litwin T, Karliński M, Dziezyc K, Chabik G, Czerska M. D-penicillamine versus zinc sulfate as first-line therapy for Wilson's disease. Eur J Neurol 2014; 21:599-606. [PMID: 24447648 DOI: 10.1111/ene.12348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To compare the course of treatment in patients with symptomatic Wilson's disease (WD) receiving either D-penicillamine (DPA) or zinc sulfate (ZS) as first-line therapy. METHODS In all, 143 consecutive patients diagnosed with symptomatic WD from January 2005 to December 2009, followed until December 2010, were included. The decision about first-line therapy was made individually after discussion with the patient. Physicians had no clear preference of one drug over the other. Data were analyzed in subgroups with predominantly neurological (DPA, 35; ZS, 21) and hepatic (DPA, 36; ZS, 51) presentation of WD. RESULTS According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, neurological WD patients scheduled for DPA had a similar probability of not remaining on first-line therapy as patients receiving ZS (20% vs. 24% at the end of follow-up), with adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 0.9 (95% CI 0.2-3.5). In patients with hepatic WD, this probability was significantly higher for DPA (31% vs. 12%; adjusted OR 3.0, 95% CI 0.9-9.9), especially in the first 6 months. Early worsening occurred only in neurological WD patients, with no differences between both treatment groups (35% vs. 19%; OR 2.8, 95% CI 0.7-10.8). Neurological improvement and decrease of liver enzymes were achieved with similar frequency. Compliance with DPA was better in hepatic (97% vs. 80%) but not in neurological patients (91% vs. 81%). Drug adverse effects were more common on DPA (15% vs. 3%). CONCLUSIONS DPA and ZS are effective in the majority of WD patients. Neither therapy appears to be clearly superior. Therefore ZS may be considered a reasonable alternative to DPA as a first-line therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Członkowska
- Second Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland; Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
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Hui J, Yuen YP, Chow CM, Chong J, Chiang G, Cheung CK, Law ELK, Mak CM, Lam CW, Yuen PMP, Tang NLS. Isolated persistent elevation of alanine transaminase for early diagnosis of pre-symptomatic Wilson's disease in Chinese children. World J Pediatr 2013; 9:361-4. [PMID: 24146181 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-013-0436-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies presented a contradictory approach for the investigation of pediatric patients with an isolated increase in alanine transaminase. While classical teaching advised for a thorough investigation, recent studies suggested the yield on further investigation was low and thus not necessary. Yet the approach to the same clinical problem may need to be different due to variable disease prevalence rates among different ethnic populations. For the population with a higher prevalence rate of genetic liver diseases like Wilson's disease, an abnormal liver function may be the first presenting feature for some patients. METHODS We reviewed 10 Chinese children with Wilson's disease who were diagnosed at a presymptomatic stage because of an isolated persistent elevation of alanine transaminase. RESULTS All 10 patients did not have overt symptoms of liver impairment or neurological deficit. They were picked up incidentally with an abnormal liver function test. All patients were started on treatment shortly after diagnosis, and they remained well and symptom-free on the latest follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This case series illustrated that an isolated persistent elevation of alanine transaminase is an important clue to the early diagnosis of pre-symptomatic Wilson's disease. It is particularly relevant in the Asian population where the disease is more prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joannie Hui
- Department of Pediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China,
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Bruguera M, Abraldes JG. [Common problems in the diagnosis and treatment of Wilson's disease]. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2013; 36:316-25. [PMID: 23570841 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present article aims to provide answers to questions frequently asked by physicians attending patients with Wilson's disease (WD) or those with a suspected diagnosis of WD. The article is divided into 2 parts: a first part with answers to questions relating to the diagnosis of this entity and a second with answers to questions concerning treatment. A brief appendix is included with responses to questions not falling into either of these 2 categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Bruguera
- Servicio de Hepatología, Institut de Malalties Digestives i Metabòliques, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, España.
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Chang H, Xu A, Chen Z, Zhang Y, Tian F, Li T. Long-term effects of a combination of D-penicillamine and zinc salts in the treatment of Wilson's disease in children. Exp Ther Med 2013; 5:1129-1132. [PMID: 23599735 PMCID: PMC3628594 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2013.971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a high-dose zinc sulfate and low-dose D-penicillamine combination in the treatment of pediatric Wilson's disease (WD). A retropective chart review of 65 patients with WD was conducted. These patients received D-penicillamine (8-10 mg/kg/day) and zinc sulfate as the primary treatment. The pediatric dose of elemental zinc is 68-85 mg/day until 6 years of age, 85-136 mg/day until 8 years of age, 136-170 mg/day until 10 years of age and then 170 mg/day, in 3 divided doses 1 h before meals. After clinical and biochemical improvement or stabilization, zinc sulfate alone was administered as the maintenance therapy. Under treatment, the majority of patients (89.2%) had a favourable outcome and 3 patients succumbed due to poor therapy compliance. No penicillamine-induced neurological deterioration was noted and side-effects were observed in <11% of patients over the entire follow-up period. Benefical results on the liver and neurological symptoms were reported following extremely long-term treatment with a combination of low-dose D-penicillamine and high-dose zinc sulfate. Therefore, this regimen is an effective and safe treatment for children with WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003
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Histologic evolution and long-term outcome of Wilson's disease: results of a single-center experience. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 25:111-7. [PMID: 23011036 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e328358f7da] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare inborn disease related to copper storage, leading to liver cirrhosis and neuropsychological deterioration. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical presentation and long-term outcome, and to examine the progression of hepatic histopathology in serial liver biopsies from WD patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We carried out a retrospective analysis of 60 patients with WD treated with zinc and/or penicillamine. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were gathered and 40 patients underwent an initial biopsy and at least one repeat biopsy. Patients were divided into two groups: progressors (patients who presented worsening of at least one unit of fibrosis) and nonprogressors (patients who presented stable or improved fibrosis scores). RESULTS A total of 33/40 (83%) patients (nonprogressors) showed stable hepatic histology or improvement. Seven of 40 (17%) patients (progressors) showed worsening of fibrosis. There was no significant correlation between the histological findings and clinical parameters or initial presentation. CONCLUSION In our study cohort, liver disease was stable or improving in most of the patients, and development of progressive hepatic symptoms while under treatment was a rare event. The development of new symptoms while under treatment or progression of pre-existing symptoms was more often recorded for neurological than for hepatic symptoms.
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Krebs NF. Update on Zinc Deficiency and Excess in Clinical Pediatric Practice. ANNALS OF NUTRITION AND METABOLISM 2013; 62 Suppl 1:19-29. [DOI: 10.1159/000348261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Yakimovskii AF. Effects of Zinc Chloride Administered into the Striatum on Motor Behavior in Rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11055-012-9624-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Fenu M, Liggi M, Demelia E, Sorbello O, Civolani A, Demelia L. Kayser-Fleischer ring in Wilson's disease: a cohort study. Eur J Intern Med 2012; 23:e150-6. [PMID: 22863441 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2012.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2011] [Revised: 03/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate Wilson's disease (WD) features in Sardinian patients with Kayser-Fleischer (KF) ring and to evaluate correlations between modifications in KF and anti-copper therapy and systemic WD evolution. PATIENTS AND METHODS Sixty-seven WD patients (35 m/32 f; mean age 41 years) were retrospectively studied. At diagnosis and during follow up comprehensive ophthalmologic and neurologic examinations, brain RMN and ECD SPECT, detailed objective laboratory studies and hepatic histological examination were performed on all patients for analysis. All patients were given anti-copper therapy with d-Penicillamine in mono-therapy or in combination with Zinc Salts. RESULTS At diagnosis, KF was observed in 27% of patients with equal distribution in all age groups. Significant correlations between KF at diagnosis, neuro-psychiatric manifestations and pathologic features in brain RMN and in brain ECD SPECT were found at diagnosis. During follow up, a decrease in, or regression of KF was seen in 14% of patients. Anti-copper therapy leads to KF regression and prevents the appearance of KF. No significant correlations were observed between KF regression and clinical neurological or neuro-imaging improvement nor between KF modifications and clinical hepatic improvement. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the peculiar features of Sardinian WD patients: low representation of KF, its equal distribution in all age groups, significant correlation between KF at diagnosis and clinical neurological manifestations, pathologic brain RMN and brain ECD-SPECT are highlighted by our study. Anti-copper therapy induces KF regression and prevents its onset. Therefore, KF ring does appear to be a predictive factor in the neurological and hepatic evolution of WD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Fenu
- UOC of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria, Cagliari, Italy
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Esezobor CI, Banjoko N, Rotimi-Samuel A, Lesi FEA. Wilson disease in a Nigerian child: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2012; 6:200. [PMID: 22800610 PMCID: PMC3419090 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-6-200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Wilson disease is rarely reported among African children. This report describes the second case report of a Nigerian child with Wilson disease in three decades. Case presentation An eight-year-old African boy presented with generalized oedema and ascites and proteinuria. Over the next three weeks he developed conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia, severe coagulopathy and prominent extrapyramidal features consisting of rigidity, tremors at rest and in action, shuffling gait, slurred speech and emotional lability. Slit-lamp examination of his eyes revealed Kayser-Fleischer rings and sunflower cataracts. His serum caeruloplasmin level was 5mg/dL. Using the scoring system proposed by the 8th International Meeting of Wilson Disease and Menkes Disease, a diagnosis of Wilson disease was made. Conclusions Wilson disease does occur in African children, although the diagnosis is rarely made. A diagnosis of Wilson disease should be entertained in the evaluation of African children presenting with liver dysfunction and/or extrapyramidal neurological features.
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Mufamadi MS, Choonara YE, Kumar P, Modi G, Naidoo D, Ndesendo VMK, du Toit LC, Iyuke SE, Pillay V. Surface-Engineered Nanoliposomes by Chelating Ligands for Modulating the Neurotoxicity Associated with β-Amyloid Aggregates of Alzheimer’s disease. Pharm Res 2012; 29:3075-89. [DOI: 10.1007/s11095-012-0770-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2011] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Huang L, Yu X, Zhang J, Liu X, Zhang Y, Jiao X, Yu X. Metal element excretion in 24-h urine in patients with Wilson disease under treatment of D-penicillamine. Biol Trace Elem Res 2012; 146:154-9. [PMID: 22076732 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-011-9250-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Wilson disease is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder causing copper accumulation and consequent toxicity. D-Penicillamine, a potent metal chelator, is an important therapy for Wilson disease. To investigate the changes of metal elements under the treatment of D-penicillamine, we determined the levels of Cu, Zn, Mg, Ca, Fe, Se, Mn, Pb, Hg, Cd, As, Tl, and Al by ICP-MS in 24-h urine of 115 Wilson disease patients who had received treatment with D: -penicillamine for 1 month to 22 years at maintenance doses, as well as 115 age-matched, healthy controls. The levels of Cu, Mg, Ca, Zn, Hg, Pb, Tl, Cd, and Mn in the 24-h urine of the cases were significantly higher than those of the controls (P < 0.05), and the observed increases in the levels of Mg, Ca, and Zn were directly correlated with the treatment duration with Pearson Correlation Coefficient (R) of 0.356 (Mg), 0.329 (Ca), and 0.313 (Zn), respectively (P < 0.05). On the other hand, the levels of Al and As in the 24-h urine were lower than those of the controls (P < 0.05) and were negatively correlated with the treatment time with R of -0.337 (Al) and -0.398 (As), respectively, (P < 0.05). Thus, this study indicates that the levels of metal elements may be altered in patients with Wilson disease under the treatment of D-penicillamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisu Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, XinHua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, China
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Ellis EL, Mann DA. Clinical evidence for the regression of liver fibrosis. J Hepatol 2012; 56:1171-1180. [PMID: 22245903 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2011.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 314] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Revised: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common pathological process for the majority of liver diseases which in a significant minority of patients leads to end-stage cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Data emerging from small rodent models of chronic liver disease have demonstrated that fibrotic extracellular matrix can be remodelled and near-normal hepatic architecture regenerated upon cessation of injury. Moreover, regression of liver fibrosis in these model systems can be stimulated with drugs that target the activities of fibrogenic hepatic stellate cells. These findings are exciting as they suggest that established fibrosis is susceptible to regression and possibly even reversion. Alongside these experimental studies is a growing body of clinical data that suggest regression of fibrosis may also occur in liver disease patients for whom an effective treatment is available for their underlying liver injury. This paper provides an up-to-date review of the currently available clinical data and also considers technical caveats that highlight the need for caution in establishing a new dogma that human liver fibrosis is reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Ellis
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Derek A Mann
- Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK.
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Manifestations and evolution of Wilson disease in pediatric patients carrying ATP7B mutation L708P. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2012; 54:48-54. [PMID: 21832955 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e318230130c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to characterize a group of 11 pediatric patients, ages 3 to 13 years, affected by Wilson disease (WD) in the island of Gran Canaria, Spain. PATIENTS AND METHODS Genetic, biochemical, and pathological features, together with their response to treatment and clinical evolution, have been analyzed for this group of patients. RESULTS Genetically, the group was rather homogeneous, with an extremely high prevalence of the L708P mutation (4 homozygotes and 5 heterozygotes). Despite being initially screened because of asymptomatic hypertransaminemia, all of the patients presented with some degree of liver damage that was never accompanied by any neurological manifestation. Hepatic damage was most severe in a compound heterozygote with a novel mutation, G1266W, affecting a motif in the ATP7B polypeptide that is greatly conserved in similar proteins among metazoans. Ceruloplasmin and copper serum levels, together with the determination of hepatic copper content, were found to be of great diagnostic value, whereas urine copper measurements were found to be much less conclusive. All of the patients responded well to treatment with D-penicillamine with no documented adverse reactions. CONCLUSIONS The patients in Gran Canaria constitute, overall, one of the largest groups of patients with WD with a high incidence of a single mutation, allowing us to define the early clinical symptoms and the evolution of the disease in patients carrying the ATP7B L708P mutant allele, and the study of WD in a genetically homogeneous background.
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Masciullo M, Modoni A, Bianchi MLE, De Carolis S, Silvestri G. Positive outcome in a patient with Wilson's disease treated with reduced zinc dosage in pregnancy. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2011; 159:237-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2011.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2011] [Revised: 06/09/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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