Optical coherence tomography in tadalafil-associated retinal toxicity

Abstract

Purpose

Tadalafil (Cialis) is a potent phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor that is widely used to treat erectile dysfunction. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors have long been recognized to cause temporary and minor visual changes.

Methods

We report for the first time a case of visual disturbances due to reversible damage to the parafoveal photoreceptors following the use of tadalafil. The patient was examined using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy combined with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results

Spectral domain OCT of the right eye revealed a hyperreflective dense area and the appearance of a serous retinal detachment (SRD). The photoreceptors’ internal segment–outer segment (IS-OS) interface was thickened and markedly hyperreflective without distinguishable deposits. The increased hyperreflectivity of the IS-OS interface created a hyporeflective space behind which mimicked the appearance of a SRD. The use of tadalafil was discontinued and the patient examined 2 months later. Spectral domain OCT revealed disappearance of the dense area and the pseudo-SRD. The associated symptoms resolved rapidly with discontinuation of the drug.

Conclusions

Tadalafil use may be associated with reversible damage to the photoreceptors and corresponding visual symptoms.