DOCETAXEL-INDUCED PIGMENTARY MACULOPATHY

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Docetaxel is a chemotherapy agent used for prostate cancer.
• Ocular side effects of docetaxel are rare but can be serious.
• Pigmentary maculopathy is a condition affecting the macula, potentially causing vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document a case of bilateral docetaxel-induced pigmentary maculopathy.
• To highlight the visual consequences of docetaxel treatment.

Main Methods:

• A 79-year-old male with prostate cancer received docetaxel.
• The patient experienced blurred vision and was diagnosed with bilateral macular hyperpigmentation.
• Docetaxel was discontinued based on suspected toxicity.

Main Results:

• The patient's best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) decreased significantly after docetaxel initiation.
• Fundoscopic examination revealed bilateral central macular hyperpigmentation.
• Following docetaxel cessation, BCVA improved, and fundoscopic findings stabilized.

Conclusions:

• Docetaxel can induce pigmentary maculopathy in adult patients.
• Early detection and discontinuation of docetaxel are crucial for visual recovery.
• This case underscores the importance of monitoring ocular health during docetaxel therapy.