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Literature systematic review on the ophthalmological side effects of interferons

Yara Dadalti Fragoso1, Marina Sanchez Sahm Paggiaro, Roberta Mastromauro

  • 1Department of Neurology, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, SP, Brazil. yara@bsnet.com.br

Arquivos Brasileiros De Oftalmologia
|November 10, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Interferon therapy, used for hepatitis C, cancer, and MS, can cause eye problems. This review highlights the need for ophthalmological monitoring due to reported complications like retinal issues.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pharmacology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Interferons (IFNs) alpha and beta are established treatments for severe diseases like hepatitis C, cancer, and multiple sclerosis.
  • While the general adverse event profile of interferons is known, ophthalmological complications are rarely reported.
  • This highlights a gap in understanding potential ocular side effects of interferon therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the literature on ophthalmological complications associated with interferon therapy.
  • To emphasize the importance of vigilant eye monitoring for patients receiving interferon treatment.
  • To consolidate reported cases and identify common ocular findings.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review.
  • Search and analysis of published case reports and studies on interferon-related ophthalmological adverse events.
  • Compilation of reported ocular findings.

Main Results:

  • Nearly 500 cases of ophthalmological complications linked to interferon therapy were identified.
  • The most frequently reported findings included retinal soft exudates, hemorrhages, and ischemia.
  • These results indicate a significant, though often underreported, risk of ocular issues.

Conclusions:

  • Interferon therapy is associated with a range of ophthalmological complications.
  • Ophthalmological monitoring should be a routine part of patient care for those on interferon treatment.
  • Early detection and management of ocular side effects are crucial for patient outcomes.

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