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Ocular toxicities of fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitors: A review
Jerry Hsu1, Jasmine H Francis2, Sumayya Ahmad1
1New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors are an emerging class of small molecule targeted cancer drugs with promising therapeutic possibilities for a wide variety of malignancies. While ocular adverse events from FGFR inhibitors are reported in clinical trials, subsequent case studies continue to reveal new toxicities. Disease pathology affecting multiple parts of the eye has been reported, but the ocular surface and the retina are the most commonly encountered areas affected by FGFR inhibitors, manifesting as dry eye and FGFR inhibitor-associated retinopathy, respectively. Corneal thinning and melt is a rare but serious and potentially vision-threatening complication of FGFR inhibitor toxicity. Similarities between toxicities observed from other targeted cancer therapy drugs and FGFR inhibitors may help us understand underlying pathophysiological changes. The management of these adverse events requires close ophthalmologic follow-up and may require discontinuation of the offending agents in some cases.
Insights
Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors can cause ocular toxicities, including dry eye and retinopathy. Rare but serious complications like corneal melt necessitate ophthalmologic monitoring and potential treatment cessation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors represent a novel class of targeted cancer therapies.
- Ocular adverse events are documented in clinical trials of FGFR inhibitors.
- Ongoing research reveals emerging toxicities beyond initial findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize the spectrum of ocular toxicities associated with FGFR inhibitors.
- To highlight common and rare ocular adverse events.
- To discuss potential pathophysiological mechanisms and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical trials and case studies on FGFR inhibitor ocular toxicity.
- Analysis of reported ocular pathologies, including ocular surface and retinal manifestations.
- Comparison with toxicities from other targeted cancer therapies.
Main Results:
- Common ocular toxicities include dry eye and FGFR inhibitor-associated retinopathy.
- Rare but severe complications such as corneal thinning and melt can occur.
- Pathological similarities exist between FGFR inhibitor toxicities and those of other targeted agents.
Conclusions:
- FGFR inhibitors pose a risk of diverse ocular toxicities.
- Close ophthalmologic surveillance is crucial for early detection and management.
- Discontinuation of FGFR inhibitors may be necessary for severe adverse events.
