Okay, let's tackle this question about Iris pearls. First, I need to remember what Iris pearls are. From what I recall, they're small, white, calcified nodules on the iris. They're associated with certain conditions. Let me think.

Iris pearls are typically linked to chronic uveitis. Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, which includes the iris. Chronic inflammation can lead to calcification and these pearls. So maybe the condition is related to a chronic inflammatory process. Wait, but what specific conditions cause chronic uveitis?

I think sarcoidosis is a possible cause. Sarcoidosis can cause granulomatous uveitis, which is chronic. That might lead to iris pearls. Also, other granulomatous diseases like tuberculosis or syphilis could be involved, but I'm not sure. Another possibility is Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis, which is a chronic, low-grade uveitis that can lead to iris atrophy and pearls. Oh, wait, Fuchs' is a specific type of uveitis that's more common in women and causes heterochromia. Iris pearls are a classic sign there.

Wait, let me check. Iris pearls are more commonly associated with Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis. So the correct answer would be Fuchs' disease. Let me confirm the other options. Sarcoidosis can cause uveitis but not specifically iris pearls. Syphilis can cause uveitis but again, not the pearls. So the key here is Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis. The other options are distractors that cause uveitis but not the pearls. The clinical pearl here is that Fuchs' is a classic cause of iris pearls, and the student should remember that association for exams.

**Core Concept**
Iris pearls (also called Koeppe nodules) are small, white, calcified nodules on the iris surface, typically associated with chronic granulomatous uveitis. They result from calcification of degenerated iris tissue due to persistent inflammation.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Iris pearls are a hallmark of **Fuchs’ heterochromic iridocyclitis**, a chronic, low-grade granulomatous uveitis. This condition leads to iris atrophy, heterochromia, and secondary glaucoma. The calcified nodules form as a result of long-standing inflammation and fibrosis in the iris stroma. Distinguishing this from other uveitic causes is critical for appropriate management.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Sarcoidosis can cause granulomatous uveitis but typically presents with larger nodules (Busacca nodules in ciliary body) and systemic features.
**Option B:** Syphilitic uveitis is acute/chronic but does not classically produce iris pearls.
**Option C:** Herpes zoster ophthalmicus causes epithelial keratitis and iritis, not calcified nodules.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Fuchs’ heterochromic iridocyclitis is a **diagnostic mimic** of other uveitides. Key features to remember: **heterochromia**, **iris atrophy**, **gl

✓ Correct Answer: B. Hansen's disease