Ocular surface toxicities associated with modern anticancer therapies

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cancer treatment has evolved from cytotoxic therapies to targeted approaches like immune checkpoint inhibitors and antibody drug conjugates.
• Modern anticancer therapies (MATs) offer improved efficacy but can cause ocular surface adverse events.
• These ocular complications, though rare, may be underreported and impact patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss ocular surface pathologies associated with MATs.
• To describe the suspected pathophysiological mechanisms of these adverse events.
• To outline current treatment strategies for MATs-induced ocular surface conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on ocular surface adverse events linked to modern anticancer therapies.
• Analysis of reported cases and suspected mechanisms of ocular toxicity.
• Synthesis of clinical information on diagnosis and management.

Main Results:

• MATs, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies, are associated with a spectrum of ocular surface pathologies.
• Potential mechanisms involve direct toxicity, immune-mediated responses, or disruption of ocular surface homeostasis.
• Early recognition and prompt management are key to mitigating vision impairment.

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmologists and oncologists must be vigilant for MATs-associated ocular surface adverse events.
• Timely intervention can effectively manage these conditions and preserve vision.
• Further research is needed to fully understand and prevent these treatment-related toxicities.