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Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM)-induced acute angle closure.
Jeremy C Hwang1, Kay T Khine, Jennifer C Lee
1*Department of Ophthalmology, USC Keck School of Medicine, Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles ‡Retina Vitreous Associates Medical, Beverly Hills, CA †Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC.
Journal of Glaucoma
|November 19, 2013
Summary
Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM) may cause acute angle closure (AAC) glaucoma. This case report details a patient who developed AAC after taking MSM, with symptoms resolving after discontinuing the supplement.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Acute angle closure (AAC) is an ophthalmic emergency.
- Dietary supplements are widely used for various health benefits.
- Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM) is a popular dietary supplement known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old woman presented with bilateral AAC.
- Symptoms developed one week after initiating multiple dietary supplements, including MSM.
- Ocular examination revealed ciliary body edema and choroidal effusion.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of MSM led to the resolution of AAC and uveal effusion.
- The patient's vision recovered to 20/20 bilaterally.
- MSM, containing a sulfonyl moiety, is structurally similar to sulfa drugs known to cause AAC.
Implications:
- This case suggests a potential link between MSM ingestion and drug-induced AAC.
- Healthcare providers and consumers should be aware of this potential adverse effect of MSM.
- Further investigation into MSM's ocular toxicity is warranted.
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