Incidence of uveitis and macular edema among patients taking fingolimod 0.5 mg for multiple sclerosis

Background: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a higher incidence of uveitis compared with the general population. Fingolimod, a first line disease modifying drug used in multiple sclerosis, may cause macular edema and thus requires ophthalmic examination. However, murine models and anecdotal reports suggest fingolimod may reduce the incidence of uveitis.

Purpose: To report the incidence of uveitis and macular edema among those on fingolimod 0.5 mg (Gilenya®) therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods: Retrospective review of patients on fingolimod who developed uveitis and/or macular edema.

Results: No patients had an occurrence or history of uveitis. Four of the 188 (2.13%) patients developed macular edema without ocular inflammation. One of the 188 (0.53%) patients developed Acute Macular Neuroretinopathy.

Conclusion: Patients taking fingolimod have a lower incidence of uveitis than expected in a population of MS patients.

Keywords: Acute macular neuroretinopathy; Cystoid macular edema; Fingolimod; Gilenya; Macular edema; Multiple sclerosis; Uveitis.