Kayser-Fleischer rings

Kayser-Fleischer rings are colored rings that appear around the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. They are caused by deposits of a copper-colored substance in the cornea’s tissue. These rings are commonly associated with Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder where the body cannot properly remove excess copper, leading to copper buildup in organs including the eyes. Detecting these rings can help doctors diagnose Wilson’s disease early, allowing for treatment to prevent serious health issues related to copper accumulation. The rings are usually visible during an eye examination with a slit lamp.