MEK Inhibitor-Associated Ocular Hypertension

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors are crucial targeted therapies for various cancers.
• While effective, MEK inhibitors are linked to ocular toxicities, including serous neurosensory retinal detachments.
• MEK inhibitor-associated ocular hypertension is a rarely documented adverse effect.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report three cases of ocular hypertension associated with MEK inhibitor therapy.
• To highlight that ocular hypertension may be a class effect of MEK inhibitors.
• To inform ophthalmologists about this potential adverse ocular event.

Main Methods:

• Case report of three patients experiencing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) during MEK inhibitor treatment.
• Monitoring of IOP and response to treatment with topical hypotensive agents.
• Review of literature on MEK inhibitor-associated ocular toxicities.

Main Results:

• Three patients developed elevated IOP (24-27 mm Hg) while on trametinib, an investigational MEK inhibitor, or cobimetinib.
• All patients' IOP normalized with topical dorzolamide/timolol treatment.
• Patients were able to continue their MEK inhibitor cancer therapy.

Conclusions:

• Elevated IOP is a potential adverse effect of MEK inhibitors, possibly across the drug class.
• Ocular hypertension can be managed with topical medications, often without interrupting cancer treatment.
• Ophthalmologists should be aware of MEK inhibitor-associated ocular hypertension due to the increasing use of these agents.