Side effects of retinoid therapy on the quality of vision

Abstract

Retinoids are compounds chemically related to vitamin A, which are frequently used in dermatological practice (1). They are characterized by numerous mechanisms of action leading to normalization of keratinocyte proliferation and maturation. They have anti-seborrhoeic, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects (1, 2). A number of side effects to retinoid treatment have been recorded; one group of such side effects relates to eyes and vision. Dry eye syndrome and blepharoconjunctivitis are the most common side effects, appearing in 20-50 % of patients treated with retinoids. They often contribute to the occurrence of other side-effects such as eye discomfort and contact lens intolerance. Due to the widespread use in clinical practice, the adverse effects, including ocular side effects, should be studied. To confirm the variety of adverse effects of retinoids, several case reports of rare side-effects are presented.

Flavonoids enhance rod opsin stability, folding, and self-association by directly binding to ligand-free opsin and modulating its conformation

“…Supplementation with a precursor of 11-cis-retinal chromophore, vitamin A, also displayed beneficial effects in patients with RP (51). However, prolonged retinoid therapy could disturb the retinoid homeostasis and cause toxicity (52). To overcome this limitation, the development of nonretinoid pharmacological chaperones is indispensable.…”

Perspective and Consensus Opinion: Good Practices for Using Organotypic Skin and Epidermal Equivalents in Experimental Dermatology Research

“…was not detected after one month of treatment. 101 Nonetheless, the lowest daily retinoid dose able to manage cutaneous symptoms is recommended to minimize risks of ocular toxicity.…”

Consensus recommendations for the use of retinoids in ichthyosis and other disorders of cornification in children and adolescents

“…99,100 Ocular toxicity from acitretin use in psoriasis was not detected after one month of treatment. 101 Table 9. (which includes chronic inflammatory disorders but does not specify retinoid use) is detailed by the American Heart Association.…”