Tamoxifen-associated eye disease. A review

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tamoxifen is an oral antiestrogen used for breast cancer treatment and chemoprevention.
• Concerns exist regarding potential ocular toxicity from long-term tamoxifen use.
• This review focuses on adverse effects on the eye associated with tamoxifen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate published data on ocular toxicities linked to tamoxifen.
• To discuss clinical surveillance, diagnosis, and management of tamoxifen-related eye conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of National Library of Medicine databases.
• Review of case reports, clinical series, and trial data up to fall 1994.
• Inclusion of relevant medical literature on tamoxifen ocular effects.

Main Results:

• Potential toxicities include crystalline retinal deposits, macular edema, and corneal changes.
• High-dose tamoxifen is associated with extensive retinal lesions and visual impairment.
• Low-dose, long-term use may cause less extensive retinal changes or asymptomatic retinal crystals.

Conclusions:

• Ocular toxicity from tamoxifen is infrequent in contemporary clinical practice with low-dose, long-term regimens.
• Awareness of potential ocular side effects is crucial for healthcare providers.
• Appropriate patient surveillance and prompt evaluation of visual symptoms are recommended.