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Updated: Jan 6, 2026
Using the Electroretinogram to Assess Function in the Rodent Retina and the Protective Effects of Remote Limb Ischemic Preconditioning
Published on: June 9, 2015
MITOGEN-ACTIVATED PROTEIN INHIBITORS: FULL-FIELD ELECTRORETINOGRAM DEMONSTRATING GENERALIZED RETINAL DYSFUNCTION
Michel van Lint1, Herlinde Ebraert2, Elisabeth H Van Aken3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Brussels University Hospital, Jette, Belgium. Dr. van Lint is now with the Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.
Purpose:
To report a patient with generalized retinal toxicity to mitogen-activated protein inhibitors.
Methods:
Retrospective case report.
Results:
Full-field electroretinogram findings indicate a generalized toxicity to the use of the mitogen-activated protein inhibitor trametinib. There was an improved response and resolution of serous detachments after decreasing the dose.
Conclusion:
Mitogen-activated protein inhibitors may affect global retinal function, as opposed to the serous detachments that are concentrated in the posterior pole. This may be of importance in further understanding the underlying pathologic mechanisms.
Insights
Mitogen-activated protein inhibitors like trametinib can cause widespread retinal toxicity. Reducing the dosage may improve vision and resolve retinal detachments, aiding in understanding these effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibitors are used in cancer therapy.
- Retinal toxicity is a known side effect of some targeted therapies.
Observation:
- A patient treated with the MAP kinase inhibitor trametinib developed generalized retinal toxicity.
- Full-field electroretinogram (ffERG) revealed widespread retinal dysfunction.
Findings:
- Trametinib-induced retinal toxicity manifested as generalized dysfunction, not solely posterior pole involvement.
- Decreasing the trametinib dosage led to improved ffERG responses and resolution of serous detachments.
Implications:
- MAP kinase inhibitors may impact global retinal function.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing ocular side effects in patients receiving targeted therapies.
- This case highlights the importance of ffERG in detecting and monitoring diffuse retinal toxicity.
