Warning Signs Of Wilson's Disease To Watch For

Kayser-Fleischer Rings And Sunflower Cataracts

Kayser-Fleischer rings and sunflower cataracts are two of the major eye symptoms used to diagnose Wilson's disease. Kayser-Fleischer rings are golden-brown or greenish rings that form around the edges of the corneas. Five out of six patients who have liver symptoms associated with Wilson's disease will present with Kayser-Fleischer rings, and nine out of ten individuals who have neurological symptoms will have the rings. These rings are deposits of copper, and they can be easily seen by an eye specialist during a slit-lamp examination. Sunflower cataracts, also known as sunburst cataracts, are also caused by copper deposits on the lens of the eye. These cataracts have a greenish disc in the center and radial opacities that resemble spokes. Kayser-Fleischer rings and sunflower cataract can both be diagnosed by an ophthalmologist. While the rings may go away with the use of chelating agents, cataract removal may sometimes be recommended in order to prevent vision complications.