In Wilson's Disease, which part of the body primarily accumulates excess copper?

Prepare for the NBEO Systemic Disease Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions to test your knowledge. Each question includes hints and explanations. Enhance your understanding and readiness for the exam.

In Wilson's Disease, the primary accumulation of excess copper occurs in the liver. This genetic disorder is caused by a mutation in the ATP7B gene, which impairs the body's ability to transport copper and leads to its buildup. The liver plays a crucial role in copper metabolism and typically excretes excess copper into bile. However, in Wilson's Disease, excessive copper is not excreted properly and accumulates, leading to hepatic damage and dysfunction. Over time, this liver damage can contribute to systemic complications and affect other organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart, but the liver is the first and most significantly impacted organ in this condition. This is essential for understanding how Wilson's Disease progresses and the different health complications that can arise from untreated copper accumulation.

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