Blurred vision while on crizotinib - 1258704

neilb
Posts:84

I've been on crizotinib for 18 months (with great success!). The last two weeks, I've had increasing blurred vision in my right eye. Given that there was also a headache on that side, I was referred for MRI with contrast. That showed nothing unusual (thankfully!), and it was agreed that I would consult eye doctor next and report back to oncologist after that. Eye doctor isn't until next week. One thing that occurred to me is that crizotinib is associated with blurred vision, but it seems strange that it would take 18 months. Does anyone (docs or patients) have any knowledge of crizotinib-related blurred vision this late? Thanks!--Neil

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Reply # - August 20, 2013, 07:37 PM

Dr West
Posts: 4735

I don't. To my knowledge, the vision changes with crizotinib are usually just the now classic fluttering in someone's peripheral vision at dusk and dawn, but nothing else. I believe other things are possible, but I've not heard of or seen this.

But amidst this discussion, let me say CONGRATULATIONS on your wonderful results!

-Dr. West

Reply # - August 20, 2013, 07:41 PM

neilb
Posts: 84

Thanks! That seemed like a longshot to me, too. So, we're now looking (so to speak) to the opthamologist for an explanation. I'm betting that it's neither the cancer nor the crizotinib.--Neil

Reply # - August 21, 2013, 11:30 AM

catdander
Posts:

Hijacking kind of;

Neil, Just wanted to say how glad I am that you've moved through last February's scan so well and I presume a more recent one too! I hope nothing difficult to treat is found and resolved for your eyes. You're getting old you know ;)
Congratulations to you and your family.

Janine

Reply # - August 22, 2013, 04:56 AM

JimC
Posts: 2753

Neil,

Great to hear from you and about your excellent results with Crizotinib! I hope the eye issue can be resolved soon. Thanks for updating us; we love to hear good news!

JimC
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Reply # - August 22, 2013, 09:00 AM

neilb
Posts: 84

Thanks to all for your responses and kind thoughts (even prompted me to update signature). I hope all of you are well. Opthamologist appointment moved up to tomorrow. My oncologist (not surprisingly) agrees with Dr. West that crizotinib is not the likely culprit. My consultations with Dr. Google hint at blood pressure-related issues. Thanks to all!--Neil

Reply # - August 22, 2013, 05:35 PM

neilb
Posts: 84

I'd settle for that! Funny story: I messaged a young colleague on Facebook to wish him a Happy Birthday and remarked that I couldn't believe he was only 26. He replied, "Me neither. I feel like I'm 40." Me: "I wish I felt like I was 40!"--Neil

Reply # - August 23, 2013, 09:09 AM

aunttootsie001
Posts: 324

Been on different amounts of Xalkori for ( months. Been back on full dose since May 26th and have had an occasional blurred vison on some days especially since going on Paxil it happens more frequent. Dizzieness at times! Hope your blurred vision problems are resolved soon! Could just be a burst blood vessel since Floaters are a side affect from this med. I had a floater when I started on it in November when I started full dose the first time! Hang in there! Lorrie from Ohio

Reply # - August 23, 2013, 09:20 AM

neilb
Posts: 84

Thanks! Just back from opthamologist. Well, it's better than brain mets, but the news isn't great. I have an occlusion of the central retinal vein in my right eye (ischemic). They say it may be due to blood pressure issues, but "lung cancer can be the cause of almost anything." I see a retinal specialist next week. There are injections and laser treatments available, but it may or may not be at all reversible. And depending on who I listen to, there may be a 7-25% chance of developing it in the other eye. Still better than brain mets, but if anyone (doctors or patients) knows anything more about this, I'd be glad to hear from you.--Neil

Reply # - August 23, 2013, 06:46 PM

Dr West
Posts: 4735

I'm afraid I don't have any insight, though I agree it's better than brain metastases. While it might be related to lung cancer, it's exceptionally rare, I'm not sure it's any more common in someone with lung cancer.

Good luck, Neil.

-Dr. West

Reply # - August 23, 2013, 06:51 PM

neilb
Posts: 84

It gets better, in terms of the circle of life with lung cancer. It turns out (as Dr. West undoubtedly knows) that the injection treatments (which trials show are pretty effective) are of a drug I've heard of: bevacizumab (Avastin!).--Neil

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