Ochsner Health has earned the designation of Center of Excellence from the Wilson Disease Association (WDA). Under the leadership of hepatologists Ryan Himes, MD, Hrishikesh Samant, MD, and Steven Young, MD, this recognition underscores Ochsner’s commitment to providing specialized care and advanced treatment for patients with Wilson disease, a rare and complex liver condition.
Wilson disease is an inherited disorder affecting approximately one in 30,000 people, in which the body retains excess copper, leading to potentially fatal complications in the liver, brain, and other organs if left untreated. Timely treatment through medication therapy is required to remove excess copper accumulation. Some patients with severe hepatitis or liver failure may require liver transplantation. Symptoms often appear during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood, though later onset is possible. Early diagnosis through blood, urine, and genetic testing is critical, and screening siblings of affected individuals can help initiate treatment before symptoms develop.
WDA Centers of Excellence are specialized facilities dedicated to the comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of Wilson disease. To achieve this designation, centers must meet rigorous criteria, including a demonstrated commitment to patient care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, physician education, and research into copper metabolism disorders. These centers also serve as vital educational resources for patients, families, and healthcare providers.