Image-based detection of Kayser-Fleischer ring in patient with Wilson Disease

In the paper the authors propose an image processing algorithm for detection of Kayser-Fleischer ring in eye cornea. This is a common symptom of a rare genetic disorder known as Wilson Disease. This pathology is cause of a malfunction in the copper excretion from the organism. So copper accumulates in tissues being responsible of oxidative processes in the organs affected. Copper deposit in the cornea is visible as a golden-brown, sometimes orange or greyish, pigmentation called Kayser-Fleischer ring. So it is considered a diagnostic sign of Wilson disease more than ever in individuals with neurological disorders. The proposed algorithm is based on an image processing approach. In detail, eye image is analyzed by means of a segmentation algorithm to detect the Kayser-Fleischer ring. The proposed screening method is non-invasive and automated. The innovative diagnostic tool aims to improve accuracy of actual methods used in practice. So the described technique reduces possible interpretation errors and assists doctor to diagnose the pathology.