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Lorlatinib-Induced Blindness: A Rare Entity
Neris Dincer1, Orcun Can2, Gokhan Demir2
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
Abstract:
Lorlatinib is a central nervous system-penetrant third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for the first-line management of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangement,1 which accounts for 3% to 5% of non-small cell lung cancer cases.2 The most commonly reported side effects include hyperlipidemia, edema, peripheral neuropathy, and central nervous system effects.2 Whereas ocular side effects such as photopsia, blurred vision, vitreous floaters, and diplopia have been documented with another anaplastic lymphoma kinase-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, crizotinib, there are few reports of such effects with lorlatinib.3 Herein, we present a case of bilateral optic neuropathy, initially misdiagnosed as optic nerve metastases and treated with palliative radiation therapy.
Insights
Lorlatinib, a lung cancer drug, can cause rare optic nerve issues. This case highlights bilateral optic neuropathy, initially misdiagnosed, emphasizing the need for awareness of this potential side effect.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lorlatinib is a third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor for ALK-rearranged metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.
- Common side effects include hyperlipidemia, edema, neuropathy, and CNS effects.
- Ocular side effects are rare with lorlatinib, unlike other ALK inhibitors.
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