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Published on: April 11, 2019
Epileptic seizures induced by cycloplegic eye drops
Tamara Wygnanski-Jaffe1, Paolo Nucci, Mauro Goldchmit
1Goldschleger Eye Institute and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Sheba Medical Center , Tel Hashomer , Israel .
Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology
|July 3, 2013
Summary
Cyclopentolate eye drops can induce seizures in young children, a rare complication. These seizures, often generalized, occur shortly after instillation and are unpredictable in healthy subjects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Cycloplegic ophthalmic drops are commonly used in pediatric eye care.
- Seizures are a known, albeit rare, potential adverse effect of certain ophthalmic medications.
Observation:
- A survey identified five pediatric patients who experienced seizures after receiving cycloplegic eye drops (cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1%) between 1998 and 2010.
- Seizures occurred within minutes to an hour post-instillation.
- Historical literature documented 16 prior cases implicating various cycloplegic agents.
Findings:
- Cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1% was the sole agent implicated in the surveyed cases.
- Generalized convulsions were more frequent than focal seizures.
- The majority of affected children had no significant prior medical history, indicating healthy subjects are susceptible.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for cyclopentolate-induced seizures in children, even with small dosages.
- This rare complication highlights the need for careful patient monitoring after ophthalmic drop instillation.
- Understanding the temporal relationship and seizure types can aid in diagnosis and management.
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