Chronic conjunctival chemosis from amlodipine besylate (Norvasc).
OBJECTIVE
To report a case of conjunctival chemosis and bipedal edema associated with amlodipine besylate antihypertensive medication.


METHODS
Case report.


RESULTS
A 69-year-old white man presented with a diffuse conjunctival mass on his left eye. Examination revealed extensive bulbar conjunctival dependent chemosis of his left eye without injection, pruritus, discharge, or pain. Bipedal pitting edema was found. History revealed that the features were noted 3 months after starting amlodipine besylate (Norvasc) for essential hypertension. Evaluation was unrevealing for allergic or contact irritants and systemic conditions, and the findings were attributed to the previously described side effects of the calcium channel blocker amlodipine besylate with resolution 6 months after cessation.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients with conjunctival chemosis and bipedal edema should be evaluated for drug reaction and local or systemic medical problems.
Ocular Oncology Service, Wills Eye Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
Emil Anthony T
EA
Say
Carol L
CL
Shields
Carlos
C
Bianciotto
Jerry A
JA
Shields
D000368:Aged; D017311:Amlodipine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003229:Conjunctival Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D004487:Edema / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D017311:Amlodipine