A type of macular degeneration in adult Nigerians; a possible role of chloroquine.

Eleven cases of macular degeneration occurring between the ages of 22 years and 40 years are presented. All the patients gave positive history of chloroquine intake and outdoor activity. In 4 of the 11 cases, pterygium was an associated ocular finding. The female to male ratio was 3 to 1. The macular lesions were bilateral and symmetrical in all the cases. It is postulated that the effect of chronic chloroquine ingestion exacerbated by chronic light toxicity might be responsible for this type of macular degeneration presenting in adults.