Exemestane-induced corneal epithelial changes

Cutan Ocul Toxicol. 2010 Sep;29(3):209-11. doi: 10.3109/15569521003775013.

Abstract

We report a case of corneal epithelial changes that occurred as ocular side effects of treatment with exemestane, a selective steroidal aromatase inhibitor. A 55-year-old woman presented to our outpatient department for routine eye examination. Clinical examination revealed bilateral corneal gray-white bands appearing as intraepithelial microcysts. Her past medical history included breast cancer, for which she underwent chemotherapy and subsequent treatment with exemestane. She was followed up for 1 year, during which the clinical picture of the cornea remained unchanged in both eyes and visual acuity remained unaffected. A causal connection seems to be possible between systemic treatment with exemestane and persisting corneal intraepithelial cysts.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Androstadienes / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Cornea / drug effects
  • Cornea / pathology
  • Corneal Diseases / etiology*
  • Corneal Diseases / pathology
  • Cysts / etiology*
  • Cysts / pathology
  • Epithelium, Corneal / drug effects*
  • Epithelium, Corneal / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Androstadienes
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Aromatase Inhibitors
  • exemestane