Kayser-Fleischer rings are a common ophthalmological finding in patients with Wilson disease—a genetic disorder that affects copper metabolism in the body. Usually evident in late childhood or early adolescence, these rings develop due to excess copper deposition on the inner surface of the cornea within the Descemet membrane. Occasionally, Kayser-Fleischer rings may manifest in patients with other conditions, such as primary biliary cholangitis, neonatal cholestasis, and liver disease. Additional complications include psychiatric illnesses, neurological symptoms, cardiomyopathy, infertility, and hemolytic anemia. Without proper treatment, Wilson disease can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure, ultimately resulting in death.Kayser-Fleischer rings are not specific to Wilson disease, and they can be found in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and children with neonatal cholestasis. These rings do not typically cause visual impairment and can be resolved through treatment. However, they may reappear with disease progression, serving as valuable indicators of the patient’s response to therapy and adherence to treatment. A slit-lamp examination is essential to diagnose Kayser-Fleischer rings, especially in the early stages, unless the rings are visible to the naked eye in conditions of severe copper overload. Prompt recognition of Kayser-Fleischer rings, evaluation of the underlying cause, and management of excess copper levels are crucial in reducing patient morbidity and mortality. This activity reviews the etiology, pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of Kayser-Fleischer rings, highlighting the critical roles of the interprofessional healthcare team in ensuring the timely evaluation of the condition and treatment of affected individuals.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/23848
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adolescent Medicine, Gastroenterology, General Pediatrics, General Surgery, GI (incl. Liver, Pancreas, Bilary), Internal Medicine, Pediatric Gastroenterology