Drugs Causing Crystalline Retinopathy: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment (Tamoxifen, Canthaxanthin, Methoxyflurane, Nitrofurantoin, Talc)

Abstract

Crystalline retinopathy is an umbrella term used to classify pathologies that result in refractile retinal deposits that are distributed in the macula, posterior pole, or all retinal areas. Crystalline retinopathies can be seen in a wide variety of genetic, toxic (drug-related), degenerative, iatrogenic, or idiopathic diseases. Toxic or drug-related etiologies are mostly bilateral. Taking a comprehensive medical history, questioning the drugs used, and determining the retinal location of the crystals through multimodal imaging methods can further narrow down the possible etiologies and enable us to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is important in terms of treatment opportunities and follow-up.