What is Wilson's disease?

Wilson's disease is a rare inherited disorder that causes excess copper accumulation in the body. This may lead to damage of the liver, brain, kidneys, eyes, and other organs.

What causes Wilson's disease?

Wilson's disease is caused by inheritance of abnormal copies of the ATP7B gene from both parents. This occurs in about 1 in 40,000 people, affecting men and women equally. Diagnosis is usually made before the age of 30.

Click the link below to learn more about a sodium controlled diet

Sodium Controlled Diet (pdf)

What is primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)?

PSC is a chronic disease that damages the bile ducts of the liver. Inflammation and scarring cause the bile ducts to become blocked. The blockage causes bile to accumulate in the liver which may lead to scarring or damage of the liver cells. Over time, damage of the liver cells can lead to cirrhosis. PSC usually advances slowly. People with PSC may experience episodes of infection in the liver and increased risk of cancer in the bile ducts.

What is primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC)?

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an inflammation of the bile ducts in the liver. This inflammation narrows the ducts and blocks the bile flow. This backing up of the bile (called cholestasis) can gradually damage the ducts and ultimately the liver itself.

What causes Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection. The most common liver viruses are labeled Hepatitis A, B or C. Each is a different virus which has a distinct behavior and genetic make-up. Each is also transmitted (or "caught") in a different way.

What is hepatic encephalopathy?

Hepatic encephalopathy is a complication of liver disease that occurs when blood flow bypasses the liver (called portal hypertension) and enters into the rest of the circulation. This unfiltered blood carries toxins that enter the brain and affects normal function. This toxic effect on the brain is called encephalopathy which can be seen as altered level of consciousness, altered intellectual function or changes in personality/behavior. Muscle and reflex abnormalities are also present.

What are esophageal varices?

Esophageal varices are enlarged veins located at the lower end of the esophagus (swallowing tube). These veins develop as a result of a back-up pressure from the liver called portal hypertension. This is not related to common high blood pressure. The most common cause of portal hypertension is cirrhosis.

What is alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency?

Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder which can cause problems with the lungs and/or liver. Gastroenterologists see patients who are having problems with the liver.

What causes alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency?

What is Access One?

Access One is an organization that works with patients receiving Remicade (infliximab) treatment and their providers to verify insurance coverage, identify payer requirements such as prior authorizations, and inform patients of their eligibility for financial assistance programs.

What can I expect from being enrolled in Access One?

Initial enrollment:

• Minnesota Gastroenterology (MNGI) will automatically enroll you in the Access One program when your provider prescribes Remicade.
• After we submit your insurance information for verification, you will receive a phone call from an Access One Care Coordinator who will review your benefits and discuss any potential out-of-pocket costs you may incur.

What is transfer dysphagia?

Transfer dysphagia or oropharyngeal dysphagia is a disorder pertaining to the swallowing mechanism of the mouth and upper esophagus. Patients have trouble transferring food from the mouth to the upper esophagus and completing a swallow. Symptoms are noted immediately upon swallowing and may include coughing, choking, regurgitation of food back into the mouth, and prolonged or difficult swallowing.