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Persistent corneal epithelial defect associated with erlotinib treatment
Keegan S Johnson1, Flora Levin, Davis S Chu
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science New Jersey Medical School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
Cornea
|June 11, 2009
Summary
Erlotinib, a lung cancer drug, may cause persistent corneal erosion. Discontinuing erlotinib treatment led to healing of the nonhealing corneal defect, suggesting a link between EGFR inhibition and ocular surface disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lung cancer treatment often involves targeted therapies.
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors like erlotinib are used in chemotherapy.
- EGFR plays a crucial role in corneal epithelial cell proliferation and wound healing.
Observation:
- A 79-year-old woman developed persistent corneal epithelial defects and infectious keratitis during erlotinib treatment for lung cancer.
- The corneal condition persisted for 5 months despite treatment for Staphylococcus epidermidis keratitis.
- Infectious keratitis resolved, but the corneal epithelial defect and pain continued.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of erlotinib resulted in complete healing of the corneal abrasion within 2 weeks.
- This case suggests a possible association between erlotinib toxicity and nonhealing corneal erosions.
- The findings highlight the potential impact of EGFR inhibitors on ocular surface integrity.
Implications:
- Ophthalmologists must be aware of potential ocular side effects of EGFR inhibitors.
- Recognizing and managing chemotherapy-induced ocular surface disease is crucial for patient care.
- This case underscores the importance of understanding the role of EGFR in corneal health and wound healing.
