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Minocycline-Induced Ocular Ochronosis
Carla Baaklini1, Natasha Kesav2, William Reinhart2
1Ophthalmology, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA.
Cureus
|September 13, 2023
Summary
Minocycline, an antibiotic, can cause ocular ochronosis, a rare condition leading to blue-gray discoloration of the sclera, retina, and skin. This persistent pigmentation may occur even after discontinuing the medication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Minocycline is a widely used antibiotic with known side effects.
- Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
- Ocular ochronosis is a rare condition characterized by pigment deposition in ocular tissues.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male developed blue-gray hyperpigmentation of the sclera, nail beds, and gingiva.
- The patient had a four-year history of minocycline treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa.
- Ophthalmic examination revealed scleral discoloration and retinal pigmentary changes.
Findings:
- Minocycline-induced ocular ochronosis presented with scleral, retinal, and cutaneous manifestations.
- Optical coherence tomography and fundus examination showed choroidal hyperpigmentation and retinal pigment epithelium deposits.
- The observed discoloration persisted for six years post-minocycline discontinuation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for persistent ocular and cutaneous pigmentation from long-term minocycline use.
- Ophthalmologists and dermatologists should be aware of this rare adverse effect.
- Monitoring for pigmentary changes is crucial in patients on prolonged minocycline therapy.
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