This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Pancreas, Subject name: Surgery
A 23-year-old male college student has a history of liver cirrhosis due to Kimmelstiel-Wilson syndrome (abnormality in copper metabolism). He should be treated with which of the following? 
Select and explain. 
A. Penicillamine as soon as the diagnosis is established, B. Penicillamine after variceal bleeding has occurred, C. A portocaval shunt, D. Sclerosis of the esophageal varices as a prophylactic measure
A: Penicillamine as soon as the diagnosis is established
Answer: A: Penicillamine as soon as the diagnosis is established 
Explanation: Penicillamine counteracts the adverse effects of copper on the liver in patients with Kimmelstiel-Wilson syndrome. This has been demonstrated in both humans and animals afflicted with this disease. Portocaval shunt and esophageal varices are not indicated prophylactically.