Optical coherence tomography findings in niacin maculopathy

Can J Ophthalmol. 2006 Apr;41(2):197-200. doi: 10.1139/I06-008.

Abstract

Case report: We present the case of 54-year-old male who developed bilateral cystoid macular thickening while taking 3 g of niacin per day, and we describe the optical coherence tomography (OCT) features of niacin (nicotinic acid) maculopathy.

Comments: Cystoid spaces were seen in both the outer plexiform and inner nuclear layers of both eyes. The cystoid spaces were largest and central in the outer plexiform layer, whereas a broader distribution of smaller cysts was seen in the inner nuclear layer. With cessation of niacin, his vision improved and the OCT features normalized.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Hypolipidemic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Macula Lutea / drug effects*
  • Macula Lutea / pathology
  • Macular Edema / chemically induced*
  • Macular Edema / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Niacin / adverse effects*
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence*
  • Visual Acuity / drug effects

Substances

  • Hypolipidemic Agents
  • Niacin