Retinal pigment epithelial changes associated with systemic corticosteroid treatment: report of cases and review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of our study was to describe two different manifestations of retinal pigment epithelial changes associated with systemic corticosteroid treatment.


METHODS
We report 4 patients who developed maculopathy during treatment with systemic corticosteroids. Additionally, the literature was reviewed for similar cases.


RESULTS
Two patients showed diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy. Two patients developed central serous chorioretinopathy with localized changes in the retinal pigment epithelium. A review of the literature revealed 51 patients with similar changes during treatment with corticosteroids.


CONCLUSIONS
These 4 patients provide further evidence that systemic treatment with corticosteroids may cause central serous chorioretinopathy or diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy. Ophthalmologic examination is recommended on a regular basis for patients treated with systemic corticosteroids.
Spraul
C W
CW
Department of Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital and Clinic of Ulm, Germany. Uni.Augenklinik@Medizin.Uni-Ulm.de
Lang
G E
GE
Lang
G K
GK
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010857:Pigment Epithelium of Eye / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology
D005938:Glucocorticoids