Which condition is associated with a Kayser-Fleischer ring?

A Kayser-Fleischer ring is a prominent clinical finding specifically associated with Wilson's disease. This condition is caused by an accumulation of copper in the body due to a genetic defect in copper transport, leading to excessive copper deposition in the liver, brain, and other tissues. The Kayser-Fleischer ring appears as a greenish or golden-brown ring around the cornea and results from copper being deposited in the Descemet membrane of the eye.

This unique ocular manifestation is one of the distinguishing features used to diagnose Wilson's disease and is not typically seen in other liver-related conditions. While cirrhosis, hemochromatosis, and acute liver failure have distinct pathological and clinical profiles, they do not present with Kayser-Fleischer rings. Each of these conditions may involve liver dysfunction or iron overload, but they lack the specific copper accumulation mechanisms that characterize Wilson's disease. Thus, the presence of a Kayser-Fleischer ring is a hallmark sign that confirms the diagnosis of Wilson's disease.