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Low-dose tamoxifen retinopathy
T Chang1, J R Gonder, M R Ventresca
1Ivey Institute of Ophthalmology, Victoria Hospital, London, On.
Summary
Tamoxifen-induced retinopathy, a rare side effect of breast cancer treatment, can occur even with low-dose therapy over time. Discontinuation of tamoxifen may lead to partial visual recovery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Oncology
Background:
- Tamoxifen is a widely used endocrine therapy for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
- Long-term use of tamoxifen can be associated with various ocular side effects.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old woman developed bilateral retinopathy after 9 years of low-dose tamoxifen therapy for metastatic breast carcinoma.
- The patient presented with visual disturbances attributed to the medication.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of tamoxifen therapy resulted in partial resolution of the retinopathy.
- Visual acuity improved over a 2.5-year follow-up period after stopping the medication.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring for ocular toxicity in patients on long-term tamoxifen treatment.
- Ophthalmologists and oncologists should be aware of tamoxifen-induced retinopathy as a potential complication.
- Early detection and drug cessation may lead to visual improvement in affected patients.