The present report describes an iritis-like reaction found in 13 patients treated with recombinant human erythropoietin (Eprex), a drug given to hemodialysis patients for their chronic anemia. Among 120 patients being treated by hemodialysis in two centers affiliated with our medical center, ten out of 30 Eprex-treated patients but none of 90 not being treated with Eprex developed this reaction. The observations described support a causal relation between Eprex treatment and the iritis-like reaction. Further investigative effort is needed to establish the mechanism.
GrantM.W.Toxicology of the eye.Springfield: Charles C Thomas,1986; 12-7: 274.
2.
Epoetin alpha (erythropoietin human glycoform α (recombinant)). In: McEvoyG.K., eds. AHFS drug information.Bethesda: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 1993; 847–57.
3.
HiltonA.F., HarrisonJ.D., LambA.M., PetrieJ.J., HardieI.Ocular complications of haemodialysis and renal transplant patients.Aust J Ophthalmol1982; 10: 247–53.
