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Retinal toxicity due to antimalarials: frequency and risk factors
Deseada Palma Sánchez1, Elena Rubio Velazquez, Sandra Soro Marín
1Servicio de Reumatología, Rafael Mendez, Lorca, Murcia, Spain. d_esiree@hotmail.com
Reumatologia Clinica
|May 28, 2013
Summary
Retinal toxicity occurred in 13.1% of patients treated with antimalarials, with chloroquine (CQ) showing a higher risk. Arterial hypertension was a significant risk factor for developing toxic retinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antimalarial drugs like chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) are widely used for rheumatic diseases.
- Retinal toxicity is a known complication of long-term antimalarial therapy.
- Early detection and risk factor identification are crucial for preventing vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of antimalarial-induced retinal toxicity.
- To identify associated risk factors for toxic retinopathy in patients receiving antimalarials.
- To evaluate ophthalmologic findings in patients referred for suspected retinal toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 40 patients treated with antimalarials.
- Data collected included drug type, dosage, comorbidities, and corticosteroid use.
- Retinal toxicity confirmed by fundus exam, visual field, OCT, and ERG.
Main Results:
- Toxic retinopathy detected in 13.1% of patients (95% CI: 5-21%).
- A trend towards higher risk with chloroquine (CQ) treatment was observed.
- Arterial hypertension was a significant risk factor for retinopathy development.
Conclusions:
- Ophthalmologically confirmed toxic retinopathy affects 13.1% of patients on antimalarials.
- Chloroquine (CQ) treatment appears to carry a higher risk of retinal toxicity.
- Identifying and managing risk factors like hypertension is vital in antimalarial therapy.
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