Wilson's Disease

I had Wilson's Disease and was transplanted in 1997.  I have been diagnosed with Bipolor II and borderline personality disorder.  Would all of these be related?

[Jordanna Joaquina, MS, CGC]

Wilson disease is a genetic condition in which large amounts of copper build up in the body - particularly in the liver, brain, and eyes. Common symptoms may include:

- liver disease
- yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eye (jaundice)
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- abdominal swelling
- neurologic problems (such as clumsiness, trembling, and difficulty walking, talking or swallowing)
- psychiatric problems (such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings)
- a green/brown ring in the cornea of the eye (called the Kayser-Fleischer ring) caused by copper deposits
- eye movements problems

The signs and symptoms typically appear during the teenage years but can appear between the ages of 6 to 40. If left untreated, the symptoms can be life-threatening.

We recommend that you meet with a medical geneticist for evaluation. You can find a medical geneticist at the American College of Medical Genetics website. We wish you the best.

[Gina312]

That was not the answer I was looking for.  I know all of that.  I would like to know if the Wilson's Disease has or had anything to do with me being Bipolar?  Thank you

[Jordanna Joaquina, MS, CGC]

As listed in the previous response, psychiatric problems can be one of the characteristics of Wilson disease. Psychiatric problems, such as depression, bipolar disorder, mood swings, have been documented in cases of Wilson disease. Hope this clarifies the information.