Many of our patients take hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) as treatment for lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or other systemic conditions. One concern for these patients is retinal toxicity, which is known to occur with such treatment. Interval monitoring is aimed at early detection rather than prevention.
Many symptoms or early warnings go unnoticed or are lacking altogether. Some patients, however, may notice a blurred area near the center of their vision. Unfortunately, once this blurred vision is noticed, stoppage of the drug is not likely to improve the vision level.
Dr. Oevermann will monitor the macular health of patients taking Plaquenil. The standard of care would be as follows:
- Baseline evaluation including medical history
- Determination of Plaquenil dosage to patient’s body weight
- Fundus Photography
- Cirrus HD-OCT Scan to view retina and macular region
- Color Vision Testing
- Visual Fields Testing
- Risk Assessment and Counseling
Dr. Oevermann will examine patients on a regular basis depending on the dosage level of Plaquenil. Re-evaluations will take place annually or every six months depending on the risk factors and dosage levels.
Plaquenil Evaluations
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