Has anyone failed a visual field test after being on plaquenil?

[sflynn84]

I have been on Plaquenil a little over a year and recently failed my visual field test. I found this test to be very hard to take and my eyes were very dry. My doctor is having me come back to retake it but mentioned if I failed again then I will need to discontinue the Plaquenil. I am worried because it has been working very well at keeping my lupus under control. I am wondering if anyone has experienced something similar?

[Pickzie]

I’ve been in plaquenil for 25 years at 400mg a day (dose needs to reflect body weight). Ive not had any problems but have retina checks every year to check for any unwanted changes which might mean having to take a lower dose or stop the plaquenil. I do notice that my vision is blurry when my eyes are dry but that is temporary.

[Bebe76]

Retinal toxicity from hydroxy normally occurs (if it does occur) after several years of use. Did you have a baseline eye examination prior to starting on hydroxy?

[sflynn84 in reply to Bebe76]

I did have a baseline eye exam. It seems odd that I could be having problems after only being on the drug for a year, plus I only take 200mg a day. I am hoping I pass when I retake the test.....

[KayHimm]

I am so sorry to hear that you may have to discontinue the Plaquenil when it is helping you so much. This may not be related but my visual field was limited due to weak muscles. The technician held my eyes open for half the test and not the other half for comparison. Could your eyes have been so dry that you could not hold them completely open? Could you take measures to counter the dryness during the test? It is worth asking the doctor in advance just in case the dryness affected your ability to keep your eyes open. Will be thinking of you.

[KayHimm]

Just saw a “tip of the month” on the Glaucoma Society website that states severe dry eyes can alter a visual test result. Maybe you will pass with lots of artificial tears!

[sflynn84]

Thank you all so much for you taking the time to respond. I am so lucky to have found this forum. I will post an update after I retake the test.

[KayHimm in reply to sflynn84]

You also provided valuable information for other Sjogrens suffering to know when taking the visual field test. Yes, please let us know how your test goes. Rooting for you!

[sflynn84]

I just wanted to update everyone that I passed my visual field exam. I was allowed to wear my contacts and made sure to use my eye drops and take breaks! My ophthalmologist told me that there is a learning curve with this test, so thankfully I can continue on plaquenil!

[LH44 in reply to sflynn84]

I was a little concerned reading your initial post until I just read your most recent reply as I have a blind spot on visual field this year that wasn't there 5yrs ago. I've been on Hydroxychloroquine 3yrs. None of my eye cons or neuro-ophthalmologists I saw even suggested to stop the medication. I also have involuntarily eye closure when looking sideways for around 1.5yrs! No one's doing anything about it. Glad your test has improved.

[KayHimm in reply to sflynn84]

I just read your post. I had been wondering how your second visual field test went. Such good news! Good for you that you explored every possible complicating factor. Your ophthalmologist must have been happy with your results and impressed with your determination.