Hydroxychloroquine retinopathy: is screening necessary?

The 4-aminoquinolines (chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine) are used as second line agents for their disease modifying effect in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The association between chloroquine therapy and pigmentary maculopathy has been known since 1959.1 The manufacturer's datasheet suggests that all patients receiving hydroxychloroquine should undergo an ophthalmic examination, including a central visual field test, at least twice a year. If implemented this recommendation would have a noticeable impact on the ophthalmic service. Is it necessary? The earliest sign of chloroquine retinopathy is a paracentral scotoma. This so called premaculopathy can be detected …