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Mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitor-associated retinopathy (MEKAR). A clinical case
M Buenasmañanas-Maeso1, Ó Gutiérrez-Montero1, J A Reche-Sainz2
1Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors have significantly improved the prognosis of various types of cancer such as metastatic melanoma. However, their use is usually associated with ocular side effects. A retinopathy associated with these agents (MEKAR) has been described, consisting of the development of neurosensory detachments, generally bilateral and multiple, similar to those that appear in the central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Generally, optical coherence tomography allows us to differentiate the two conditions. We present the case of a 55-year-old woman in treatment with a MEK inhibitor, who developed bilateral neurosensory detachments and blurred vision, which resolved with the discontinuance of the treatment due to tumour progression.
Insights
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors can cause ocular side effects, including retinopathy. This case highlights neurosensory detachments in a patient treated with a MEK inhibitor, which resolved upon treatment cessation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors offer improved cancer prognoses, particularly for metastatic melanoma.
- Ocular side effects are common complications associated with MEK inhibitor therapy.
Observation:
- A specific retinopathy, MEK inhibitor-associated retinopathy (MEKAR), presents with neurosensory detachments.
- These detachments are typically bilateral, multiple, and mimic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).
- Optical coherence tomography aids in distinguishing MEKAR from CSC.
Findings:
- A 55-year-old woman on MEK inhibitor treatment developed bilateral neurosensory detachments and blurred vision.
- These ocular symptoms resolved after discontinuing the MEK inhibitor due to tumor progression.
Implications:
- MEK inhibitor-associated retinopathy (MEKAR) is a significant ocular complication to consider in patients undergoing treatment.
- Prompt recognition and potential treatment cessation may lead to visual recovery.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and management of MEKAR.
