A case of bilateral optic neuropathy in a patient on tacrolimus (FK506) therapy after liver transplantation

Am J Ophthalmol. 2000 Apr;129(4):536-8. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(99)00443-2.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of bilateral optic neuropathy in a patient receiving tacrolimus (FK 506, Prograf; Fujisawa USA, Inc, Deerfield, Illinois) for immunosuppression after orthotropic liver transplantation.

Method: Case report. In a 58-year-old man receiving tacrolimus after orthotropic liver transplantation, serial neuro-ophthalmologic examinations and laboratory studies were performed.

Results: The patient had episodic deterioration of vision in both eyes, with clinical features resembling ischemic optic neuropathies. Deterioration of vision occurred despite discontinuation of the tacrolimus.

Conclusion: Tacrolimus and other immunosuppressive agents may be associated with optic nerve toxicity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Graft Rejection / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Optic Nerve Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Optic Nerve Diseases / pathology
  • Tacrolimus / adverse effects*
  • Tacrolimus / therapeutic use
  • Visual Acuity
  • Visual Fields

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Tacrolimus