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Intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome and finasteride intake
Sharif A Issa1, Evgenios Dagres
1Department of Ophthalmology, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, Cleveland TS4 3BW, United Kingdom. sharifissa@yahoo.co.uk
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|December 7, 2007
Summary
Finasteride, used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), may cause intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery. Surgeons should inquire about BPH history and finasteride use before operating.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Urology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome (IFIS) is a complication during cataract surgery.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men.
- Finasteride is a medication commonly prescribed for BPH.
Observation:
- Two male patients undergoing bilateral cataract surgery presented with IFIS.
- Both patients were concurrently taking oral finasteride for BPH management.
Findings:
- A potential association between finasteride use and the development of IFIS was observed.
- Finasteride may alter iris dynamics, predisposing to IFIS during cataract surgery.
Implications:
- Ophthalmologists should obtain detailed medical histories, including BPH and finasteride use, from patients scheduled for cataract surgery.
- Awareness of this association can help prevent IFIS and improve surgical outcomes.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanism of finasteride-induced IFIS.
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