Purpose: Vemurafenib, a BRAF inhibitor, has revolutionized the prognosis of late-stage melanoma patients, rising at the same time concerns about its potential adverse effects. Here is a case of vemurafenib-induced uveitis, peculiar in both its presentation and management.
Methods: Case report, diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Results: Uveitis is a known side effect of vemurafenib. It is generally bilateral, moderate, manageable with topical steroids and does not require cancer therapy cessation. We present a patient who suffered from a unilateral, severe uveitis following vemurafenib treatment that fully recovered thanks to intravitreal methotrexate injections, as conventional corticosteroid therapy was contraindicated.
Conclusion: Uveitis can be a serious ocular adverse effect of vemurafenib, while its risks factors and mechanisms remain unknown. As BRAF inhibitors are now used on a regular basis, it is important for clinicians to be aware of this potentially sight-threatening side effect. Intravitreal methotrexate injections may be considered as an effective treatment choice in severe targeted agents-induced uveitis.