Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy as the First Clinical Presentation of Wilson Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review
Abstract Background: Wilson disease (WD) is a rare genetic disorder of copper metabolism. The difference in copper tissue accumulation lead to various clinical manifestations, including some atypical presentations. The complex clinical picture makes it easy to miss and misdiagnose, even delay the best chance for treatment. Case presentation: A 26-year-old male patient who had nephritis-range proteinuria and elevated serum creatinine. The renal pathology indicated Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy and tubular injury which was inconsistent with glomerular lesions. Cirrhosis was also detected by imaging examination. Considering both kidney injury and liver damage, WD was suspected. According to further detected results of abnormal copper metabolism, corneal Kayser-Fleischer rings(K-F rings), and genetic disorder of ATP7B gene, he was finally diagnosed as a case of WD.The patient was given oral penicillamine and zinc sulfate daily and he was also prescribed losartan to control proteinuria on the premise of monitoring renal function and blood pressure. During the 2 years follow-up, the patient’s 24h uric cooper dropped to normal. The sign of tremor hands disappeared. The Urine protein and renal function keep stable. The patient had normal liver function and maintained good quality of daily life. Conclusions: In some cases, IgA nephropathy patients with suspicious and unexplained neurological and liver symptoms cannot be ignored. They may eventually be diagnosed with WD.