Reversibility of canthaxanthin deposits within the retina

As reported earlier, crystalline yellow-glistening deposits in the retinal inner layer were identified in 22 of 53 patients treated with PHENORO (containing 10 mg beta-carotene and 15 mg canthaxanthin per capsule) for various light sensitive dermatoses at cumulative doses of canthaxanthin of up to 178 g for up to 12 years. 14 of the 22 patients with deposits could now be investigated again, 5 years after discontinuation of treatment. There was an extensive reduction of the number of deposits, confirming other reports which have demonstrated that the formation of the crystalline deposits is reversible. Analysis of serum samples revealed significant concentrations of canthaxanthin, resulting from the intake of this carotenoid via food.