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Published on: July 23, 2016
[Ocular disorders of anticancer drugs--ocular side effects]
1Division of Opthalmology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Sunto-gun, Shizuoka, Japan.
Abstract:
Although there are some sporadic reports about the ocular side effects (see below-named ocular disorders) of anticancer drugs, extremely few well-organized reports have been published. We report have eye disorders caused by anticancer drugs on the ocular surface (eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea), retina, optic nerve, and sites of the lacrymal ducts. For disorders of the anterior ocular segment, we use gefitinib (Iressa®) and erlotinib (Tarceba®), cetuximab (Arbitax®) for trichomegaly while for lacrymal duct disorders and retinas with corneal problems revolt biochemistry, S-1 (TS-1®), erlotinib, docetaxel, paclitaxel and tamoxifen, paclitaxel, tamoxifen, optic neuropathy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), S-1 and docetaxel have been reported. Eye disorders can be relieved by discontinuation of the anticancer drug, but one may cause irreversible change, and early diagnosis and treatment are required. In future, there is a need for examinations for large-scale eye disorders due to anticancer drugs and their prevention (about S-1 in particular) including the provision of information to ophthalmologists.
Insights
Anticancer drugs can cause various eye disorders affecting the ocular surface, retina, and optic nerve. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as some effects may be irreversible.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Sporadic reports exist on anticancer drug ocular side effects.
- Few well-organized studies detail these adverse events.
- Anticancer drugs impact ocular surface, retina, optic nerve, and lacrimal ducts.
Purpose:
- To report eye disorders caused by anticancer drugs.
- To highlight specific drugs and their associated ocular toxicities.
- To emphasize the need for early diagnosis and management.
Summary:
- Gefitinib, erlotinib, and cetuximab are associated with anterior ocular segment disorders.
- S-1, erlotinib, docetaxel, paclitaxel, and tamoxifen can cause lacrimal duct and retinal issues.
- Optic neuropathy is linked to 5-fluorouracil, S-1, and docetaxel.
Impact:
- Discontinuation of anticancer drugs may relieve eye disorders.
- Some ocular side effects can lead to irreversible changes.
- Further research and ophthalmologist education are needed for prevention and management.
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