Interferon-induced retinopathy in asymptomatic cancer patients

OBJECTIVES: Interferon-induced ocular complications, including retinal ischemia and ischemic optic neuropathy, can be associated with significant visual loss. We report three cases of asymptomatic ischemic retinopathy in cancer patients receiving interferon. DESIGN: Retrospective, interventional, noncomparative small case series. METHODS: Retrospective review of the medical records and fundus photographs. RESULTS: Interferon-induced ischemic retinopathy can occur in asymptomatic cancer patients. The retinal changes are usually reversible with discontinuation of interferon therapy. CONCLUSIONS: These three cases underscore the importance of dilated funduscopic examination at baseline and during follow-up, at least every 3 months, for all cancer patients receiving interferon to identify retinal toxicity at its earliest stages. A prospective study evaluating the incidence and severity of interferon retinopathy in cancer patients would be prudent.