Presumed Chloroquine Retinopathy in Ibadan

Objective: To review patients with clinical features of chloroquine retinopathy seen during the study period with the view of identifying the trend and creating public awareness for behavioural change. Methods: A retrospective review of case notes of patients seen between 1996 and 2002. Results: 19 patients with features of presumed chloro-quine retinopathy were reviewed: 5 women and 14 (73.7%) men. The age range is: 36-69 years, mean 50.7 years. Approximately 63% were civil servants, health care workers and teachers. Duration of chloroquine use ranged from six months to ten years, with a mean of 4.1 years. Total cumulative dose ranged from 10 gm to 312 gm, with a mean of 108 gm. Best corrected visual acuity of subjects ranged from 6/5-CF, mean 6/18. Conclusion: The majority of people using large amounts of chloroquine over long periods are educated, middle-aged males, whose loss of vision would have far reaching effects on their families. There is, therefore, a need to create public awareness of the danger of long-term chloroquine use. A follow up national survey would be desirable to determine the actual magnitude of the problem [Nig. J. Ophthalmology Vol.11(1) 2003: 24-28]