Related Experiment Videos
Canthaxanthine retinopathy
M R Bloomenstein1, R B Pinkert
1Barnet Dulaney Eye Center, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA.
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Long-term use of oral canthaxanthine (Orobronze) supplements for skin bronzing can lead to crystalline retinopathy, depositing golden particles in the macula. While vision is unaffected, awareness of this etiology is crucial for patients and clinicians.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- A patient presented with decreased vision and observed golden particles in both maculae.
- Medical history revealed 10 years of oral canthaxanthine (Orobronze) use for skin bronzing.
Observation:
- Microscopic examination identified crystalline deposits in the macular regions.
- The golden hue of the particles was noted in both eyes.
Findings:
- Oral canthaxanthine ingestion induced a crystalline retinopathy.
- The deposition of these crystalline particles was directly linked to the bronzing agent.
Implications:
- Clinicians and patients should be aware of canthaxanthine's potential ocular side effects.
- Early recognition of drug-induced retinopathy is essential for patient management.
- Differential diagnosis of macular crystalline deposits should include bronzing agents.