INCIDENCE OF HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE RETINOPATHY IN 1,207 PATIENTS IN A LARGE MULTICENTER OUTPATIENT PRACTICE

Objective. To define the true risk of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinal toxicity by studying the largest single group yet evaluated. Methods. Retrospective chart review of all patients in the Raiser Permanente M edical Care Program, Southern California Region, who had HCQ prescript ions filled from 1991 through 1993 (1,556 patients in 11 medical cente rs), Of 1,207 charts of patients who took HCQ and had documented ophth almologic examinations, initial screening identified 21 charts (1.7%) that indicated possible HCQ toxicity. Results. We identified 1 patient with definite toxicity (1 of 1,207; 0.08%) and 5 other patients with indeterminate but probable toxicity (5 of 1,207; 0.4%), The incidence of definite HCQ retinal toxicity in patients treated with HCQ at <6.5 mg/kg/day was 0. Conclusion. In HCQ-treated patients whose renal funct ion is normal, routine ophthalmic screening is not indicated if the da ily dosage is <6.5 mg/kg, In patients whose daily dosage is >6.5 mg/kg or who have taken HCQ continuously for >10 years, annual screening ma y be appropriate.