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Uveitis as a Result of MAP Kinase Pathway Inhibition
Lavnish Joshi1, Andreas Karydis1, Maria Gemenetzi1
1Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford, Surrey, London, UK.
Abstract:
We report the case of a patient treated with dabrafenib and trametinib (mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway inhibitors) for stage 3b cutaneous melanoma who developed bilateral uveitis. Although there have been reports of ocular side effects with this class of drugs, uveitis has not been previously reported to the best of our knowledge. This case indicates the wide range of side effects that can be seen with the newer targeted biological therapies.
Insights
Bilateral uveitis, an uncommon ocular side effect, developed in a patient receiving dabrafenib and trametinib for melanoma. This highlights potential adverse effects of targeted cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Targeted therapies like dabrafenib and trametinib are used for advanced melanoma.
- Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitors target specific mutations driving cancer growth.
- While ocular side effects are known, specific inflammatory conditions like uveitis are less documented.
Observation:
- A patient with stage 3b cutaneous melanoma was treated with combination therapy of dabrafenib and trametinib.
- The patient subsequently presented with bilateral uveitis, an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of uveitis associated with dabrafenib and trametinib treatment.
- The occurrence suggests uveitis as a potential, albeit rare, ocular adverse event for MAPK pathway inhibitors.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be vigilant for a broader spectrum of ocular side effects with targeted cancer therapies.
- This finding underscores the importance of monitoring for inflammatory conditions during treatment with novel biological agents.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and incidence of uveitis in patients on MAPK inhibitors.
