Medications Damaging Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Photoreceptor Complex-4: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment (Dideoxynosine, MEK Inhibitors, Sildenafil, Corticosteroids, Poppers/Alkyl Nitrate, Cisplatin, Carmustine)

Abstract

Systemic, topical, and intravitreal medications could induce retinal toxicity. Disruption of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium, vascular damage, cystoid macular edema, retinal folds, crystalline retinopathy, uveitis, and miscellaneous are patterns of retinal toxicity. Medications that could generate permanent impairment, and damage RPE and photoreceptor cells are significant. This article outlines pathogenesis, current diagnosis, and treatments of widely used dideoxyinosine, MEK inhibitors, sildenafil, corticosteroids, poppers/alkyl nitrate, cisplatin, and carmustine causing RPE and photoreceptor cells damage.