Ocular toxicities of FDA-approved antibody drug conjugates

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
• Increasing use of ADCs necessitates awareness of potential treatment-related toxicities.
• Ocular side effects are increasingly reported following ADC administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide ophthalmologists with a practical guide for managing ocular toxicities associated with FDA-approved ADCs.
• To discuss the potential pathophysiology underlying these ocular adverse events.
• To enhance the ocular health management of cancer patients receiving ADC therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of FDA-approved antibody-drug conjugates.
• Analysis of reported ocular side effects and their clinical presentations.
• Synthesis of current treatment strategies for ADC-induced ocular toxicities.
• Review of proposed mechanisms for ocular toxicity.

Main Results:

• Multiple FDA-approved ADCs carry risks of ocular toxicity, ranging in severity.
• Common ocular toxicities include dry eye, blepharitis, and visual disturbances.
• Pathophysiological mechanisms are still being elucidated but involve drug-specific targets and off-target effects.
• Management strategies vary based on the specific ADC and the nature of the ocular toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmologists play a crucial role in identifying and managing ocular toxicities from ADCs.
• Early recognition and appropriate intervention can mitigate visual morbidity in cancer patients.
• Further research into ADC-induced ocular pathophysiology is needed to refine treatment approaches.