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Published on: June 14, 2021
A case of retinal tear associated with use of sorafenib
Kelly M Gaertner1, Stephen H Caldwell2, Osama E Rahma3
1Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Virginia Health System , Charlottesville, VA , USA.
Abstract:
Inhibition of angiogenesis is a target in the treatment of a variety of malignancies. Sorafenib is an oral inhibitor of multiple tyrosine kinases involved in tumor angiogenesis. A related case of ophthalmologic toxicity has been reported with another vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor, sunitinib. We report the first case of retinal tear possibly associated with sorafenib.
Insights
Sorafenib, a cancer drug, may cause retinal tears. This is the first reported case of this potential side effect in patients receiving this angiogenesis inhibitor.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Angiogenesis inhibition is a key strategy in treating various cancers.
- Sorafenib is an oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting tumor angiogenesis.
- Ophthalmologic toxicity is a known risk with vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first suspected case of retinal tear associated with sorafenib use.
- To highlight potential ocular adverse events of sorafenib.
Main Methods:
- Case report detailing a patient experiencing a retinal tear.
- Review of patient's medical history and sorafenib treatment.
Main Results:
- A patient developed a retinal tear during sorafenib therapy.
- This represents a potential, previously unreported, ophthalmologic toxicity of sorafenib.
Conclusions:
- Retinal tear is a possible adverse event associated with sorafenib.
- Further investigation is warranted to confirm the association between sorafenib and retinal tears.

