The type of cataract seen in Wilson’s disease is:
## **Core Concept**
Wilson's disease, also known as hepatolenticular degeneration, is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive accumulation of copper in the body, particularly in the liver, brain, and other vital organs. This accumulation can lead to various clinical manifestations, including neurological symptoms and liver disease. Ocular manifestations, such as the Kayser-Fleischer ring, are also common. The disease can affect the lens of the eye, leading to cataract formation.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. sunflower cataract**, is associated with Wilson's disease. This type of cataract is characterized by a petal-like or sunflower-like arrangement of opacities in the lens of the eye, which is a result of copper deposition. The pathophysiology behind this involves the accumulation of copper in the lens, leading to the formation of these characteristic opacities.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** Snowflake cataract is typically associated with diabetes mellitus. It is characterized by small, white or grayish opacities scattered throughout the lens, resembling snowflakes. This does not match the ocular manifestations of Wilson's disease.
- **Option B:** Cortical cataract involves the periphery of the lens and has a spoke-like or wheel-like pattern. It is not specifically associated with Wilson's disease.
- **Option D:** Nuclear cataract affects the central part of the lens and is often related to aging. It does not have a specific association with Wilson's disease.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical correlation to remember is that Wilson's disease can present with a **Kayser-Fleischer ring** (copper deposition in Descemet's membrane of the cornea) and a **sunflower cataract** (due to copper deposition in the lens). These ocular findings are critical for the diagnosis of Wilson's disease.
## **Correct Answer:** . sunflower cataract