Abstract

Systemic anticancer therapies may produce several toxicities including eye adverse events. In fact, contrary to general belief, the eye is a really sensitive organ. These adverse events may vary between a simple lacrimation to a marked irreversible visual loss even at therapeutic doses. A review of the literature was conducted showing that ocular toxicity is not as uncommon as previously thought and unfortunately in most cases, the mechanism underlying this continue to be poorly understood. Dealing with this toxicity is relevant and a close collaboration between oncologists, ophthalmologists and pharmacists would be advisable to reduce the incidence of serious toxicities.

Keywords: Ocular toxicity, chemotherapy toxicity, epiphora, excessive lacrimation.