Reversible retinopathy associated with oral deferasirox therapy

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Jul 17:2013:bcr2013009205. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009205.

Abstract

A 17-year-old girl with a history of sickle cell anaemia undergoing chronic blood transfusions and iron-chelation therapy presented for multiple ophthalmic examinations. During treatment with deferoxamine, her examination remained stable but 2 years after changing to deferasirox she presented with decreased visual acuity and only mild funduscopic changes. Marked electrophysiological abnormalities were also evident. After cessation of deferasirox, her visual acuity improved and electrophysiological responses improved. No prior reports of deferasirox-related retinopathy are available. We suggest that oral deferasirox caused a reversible retinopathy in our patient and clinicians be aware of this entity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Adolescent
  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / drug therapy*
  • Benzoates / administration & dosage
  • Benzoates / adverse effects*
  • Deferasirox
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iron Chelating Agents / administration & dosage
  • Iron Chelating Agents / adverse effects*
  • Retinal Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Triazoles / administration & dosage
  • Triazoles / adverse effects*
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Benzoates
  • Iron Chelating Agents
  • Triazoles
  • Deferasirox