Progression of Pentosan-Polysulfate Sodium-Associated Retinopathy: Intermediate Follow-Up

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) is a medication with potential ocular side effects.
• Pigmentary retinopathy is a known complication associated with PPS exposure.
• Understanding risk factors for PPS-associated retinopathy progression is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and compare risk factors associated with the development and progression of pigmentary retinopathy in patients exposed to pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS).
• To evaluate the long-term outcomes of PPS-associated retinopathy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study involving 97 patients with at least two follow-up visits.
• Multimodal imaging was utilized for assessment.
• Analysis included cumulative dose, duration of PPS exposure, and rate of retinopathy progression.

Main Results:

• 33 patients had PPS-associated retinopathy, while 64 did not.
• Average follow-up was 29.4 months; cumulative PPS dose and duration were significantly higher in the retinopathy group.
• Patients who developed choroidal neovascular membranes (CNVMs) showed significantly faster rates of retinopathy progression (11.6 mm²/year) compared to those without CNVMs (3.53 mm²/year).

Conclusions:

• PPS-associated pigmentary retinopathy can progress over time, even after medication cessation.
• Choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) development is linked to accelerated retinopathy progression.
• No specific gene mutation was identified as a sole risk factor.