Corneal edema and epithelial defect during pralsetinib treatment

Abstract

Introduction

This article describes an unusual case of corneal edema with epithelial defect associated with pralsetinib, an oral rearranged during transfection (RET) inhibitor and used for the treatment of metastatic RET fusion-positive non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Case report

A 64-year-old man with metastatic NSCLC diagnosis had applied to the ophthalmology clinic with the complaint of blurred vision at the second month of pralsetinib therapy. Ocular examination revealed unilateral corneal epithelial defect and corneal edema. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of corneal disease due to pralsetinib usage.

Management and outcome

There was no improvement in the patient's clinical condition with medical treatment. Pralsetinib was stopped in consultation with the Oncology Department. 2 weeks later, the corneal findings improved and visual acuity increased. The patient was much better 1 months later.

Discussion

This case report describes corneal edema with epithelial defect as a rare side effect of pralsetinib and highlights the importance of collaboration between oncologists and ophthalmologists.