The effect of Hydroxychloroquine use on the retina and choroid
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effect of long-term Hydroxychloroquine use on the retina and choroid.
IRAS ID
345932
Contact name
Ashley Wood
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 10 months, 1 days
Research summary
Background and Purpose
This study aims to investigate eye health in patients who have taken hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), a drug commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Long-term HCQ use has been linked to a risk of retinal damage (hydroxychloroquine retinopathy), which could impair vision if not detected early. The goal of this research is to identify early signs of retinal toxicity to prevent severe eye damage in people who rely on HCQ for their medical conditions.Research Focus
The study will examine potential “biomarkers,” or indicators, of HCQ-related retinal toxicity to help identify patients at higher risk for eye problems. It will focus on two groups: patients who have taken HCQ from 1 -10 years (low-risk) and those who have used it for more than 10 years (High-risk). By finding reliable markers of retinal damage, the study hopes to improve early diagnosis and treatment.Methodology
This research will take approximately 24 months at Cardiff University School of Optometry and Vision Science. It includes two phases:HCQ monitoring service data study (Study 1): Adults patients attending HCQ monitoring services will be asked to allow researchers to access their medical records to search for potential clinical markers associated with HCQ retinal toxicity.
Prospective investigation of HCQ users (Study 2): Patients who consent to take part will undergo detailed eye exam, including non-invasive retinal assessment techniques (i.e.,SS-OCT, IRD, and mfERG) to provide an in depth assessment of retinal health and function. This will allow for a comparison between structural and functional loss, addressing a previously debated question in the literature about which one occurs first
Potential Impact
This study could inform improvements in monitoring practices for HCQ users, allowing for early detection and intervention to prevent vision loss.Location
The study will be conducted at Cardiff University and Cardiff University Optometrist Eye Clinic is the patients identification centre.REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
25/WA/0036
Date of REC Opinion
5 Feb 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion