INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE FOR THE TREATMENT OF MACULAR EDEMA SECONDARY TO HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE TOXICITY

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cystoid macular edema (CME) is a serious complication of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) use.
• Limited evidence exists on optimal treatment strategies for HCQ-induced CME.
• Hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity can lead to vision impairment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal dexamethasone implantation for treating CME in patients with HCQ maculopathy.
• To present findings from a case series on this specific treatment approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series design.
• Inclusion of patients diagnosed with hydroxychloroquine maculopathy and CME.
• Treatment administered via intravitreal dexamethasone implantation.

Main Results:

• Successful treatment of cystoid macular edema in three patients with hydroxychloroquine maculopathy.
• Intravitreal dexamethasone implantation demonstrated positive outcomes in managing this rare condition.

Conclusions:

• Intravitreal dexamethasone implantation is a potential therapeutic option for HCQ-induced CME.
• Further research is warranted to establish definitive treatment guidelines for this rare complication.