Sub Retinal Deposits as a Complication of Imatinib Mesylate (Gleevec)

Background Imatinib mesylate (GLEEVEC) is effective for a variety of hematologic and nonhematologic malignancies. Well-known ocular side effects are periorbital edema, epiphora1, extraocular muscle palsy, and blepharoconjunctivitis. However, subretinal deposits has been reported as a complication of imatinib mesylate. Herein, we describe a patient who is on treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia on Imatanib mesylate (400mg) daily since 2 years who developed subretinal deposits during treatment with imatinib. Case report A 44-year-old male was referred to ophthalmology for routine checkup. He was on treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (imatinib) since 2years. At the initial exam, fundus examination showed subretinal deposits in both eyes, even though visual acuity was 20/20 and other macular function evaluations were within normal limits. Observations When the patient was followed for 6 week after stopping imatinib there was decrease in subretinal deposits. No other ocular side effects have been noted so far. Conclusions Subretinal deposits should be considered one of the complications associated with imatinib. We propose discontinuation of the Imatanib for a short period when subretinal deposits occurs.