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Methyltestosterone-induced night blindness
Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. Journal Canadien D'Ophtalmologie
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Methyltestosterone use can cause vitamin A deficiency, leading to night blindness and steatorrhea. Symptoms resolved after discontinuing the drug, highlighting its potential toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Ophthalmology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Methyltestosterone is an anabolic steroid used for hormone replacement therapy.
- Vitamin A deficiency can manifest with visual disturbances and malabsorption symptoms.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old man developed night blindness and steatorrhea after starting methyltestosterone.
- Investigations showed low vitamin A and carotene levels, abnormal color vision, and electroretinogram changes.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms and biochemical/electrophysiologic abnormalities resolved after methyltestosterone cessation.
- This suggests methyltestosterone-induced vitamin A malabsorption or toxicity.
Implications:
- Methyltestosterone therapy may lead to vitamin A deficiency.
- Clinicians should monitor vitamin A levels in patients on methyltestosterone.
- Early diagnosis and drug withdrawal can reverse visual and gastrointestinal symptoms.