Limbal stem cell deficiency arising from systemic chemotherapy with hydroxycarbamide.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to report a case of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) after systemic chemotherapy with hydroxycarbamide.


METHODS
Clinical manifestations and pathology are detailed.


RESULTS
We describe the case of a woman with sickle cell disease, who developed bilateral LSCD after treatment with hydroxycarbamide. Histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of LSCD, revealing goblet cells, inflammatory cells, deposits of new collagen components, and neovascularization in the peripheral cornea. Matrix metalloproteinase-3, fibronectin, and collagen III were also detected in the lesions.


CONCLUSIONS
The systemic use of the antineoplastic drug, hydroxycarbamide, may cause severe LSCD. We recommend that a medication history, including that of cytotoxic drugs, be considered in evaluating LSCD.
Ding
Xiaoyan
X
Section of Immunopathology, Laboratory of Immunology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1857, USA.
Bishop
Rachel J
RJ
Herzlich
Alexandra A
AA
Patel
Mrinali
M
Chan
Chi-Chao
CC
D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000188:drug therapy; D000986:Antisickling Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003229:Conjunctival Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000473:pathology; D003315:Cornea / Q000378:metabolism; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006918:Hydroxyurea / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D016850:Limbus Corneae / Q000098:blood supply / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D011625:Pterygium / Q000473:pathology; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology*
D000986:Antisickling Agents; D006918:Hydroxyurea