Cystoid macular edema in aphakia and pseudophakia after use of prostaglandin analogs

Semin Ophthalmol. 2002 Sep-Dec;17(3-4):181-6. doi: 10.1076/soph.17.3.181.14789.

Abstract

Prostaglandin analogs are powerful ocular hypotensive agents that may also be associated with a breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and cystoid macular edema. The association is evident in pseudophakic or aphakic patients. This paper presents a case of unilateral latanoprost-associated clinical cystoid macular edema in a bilaterally pseudophakic patient; the only difference between the two eyes was the presence of a capsulotomy in the affected eye. We review the literature concerning prostaglandin analog-associated cystoid macular edema, as well as the evidence for prostaglandin analog-associated breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier. Although some evidence is suggestive of a connection between prostaglandin analogs and cystoid macular edema, many questions concerning the complex physiology of prostanoids remain. Until our understanding of these issues is more advanced, judicious use of prostaglandin analogs in patients at risk for cystoid macular edema would be prudent.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antihypertensive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Aphakia, Postcataract / complications*
  • Blood-Retinal Barrier / drug effects
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Latanoprost
  • Macular Edema / chemically induced*
  • Macular Edema / diagnosis
  • Male
  • Prostaglandins F, Synthetic / adverse effects*
  • Pseudophakia / complications*
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Prostaglandins F, Synthetic
  • Latanoprost