Question

The eye examination of a 20-year-old male shows a golden ring on the iris. What is the next investigation to diagnose the condition?

• A. Alpha-1-antitrypsin
• B. Alpha-fetoprotein
• C. Serum iron
• D. Serum ceruloplasmin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The presence of a "golden ring" on the iris is often indicative of Kayser-Fleischer rings, which are associated with Wilson's disease. Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder that results in excessive copper accumulation in the body, specifically affecting the liver and brain. The golden or brownish ring around the cornea is formed due to copper deposition.

To diagnose Wilson's disease, the next appropriate investigation is to measure serum ceruloplasmin levels. Ceruloplasmin is a protein that binds copper for transportation in the bloodstream, and its levels are typically low in individuals with Wilson's disease.

Given the options:

Alpha-1-antitrypsin

Alpha-fetoprotein

Serum iron

Serum ceruloplasmin

The most suitable test to proceed with is measuring serum ceruloplasmin, as it is directly related to the suspected condition of Wilson's disease.