TAMOXIFEN RETINOPATHY

Abstract

Four patients [with breast cancer] receiving high-dose tamoxifen [a chemotherapeutic agent] for > 1 yr have demonstrated similar retinal changes. Three of the 4 patients had a significant decrease in visual acuity as the result of a retinopathy, primarily affecting the region about the macula accompanied by macular edema. In addition, 3 of the 4 patients had unusual corneal changes. The corneal and retinal changes apparently are the result of a toxic effect of tamoxifen when used in the doses and duration described.