Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) and eye screening

Why screening is needed

Retinal toxicity is uncommon but can cause permanent central vision loss if missed. Risk rises with higher doses, long duration, kidney disease and tamoxifen use. Screening finds early changes before you notice them, allowing dose review or stopping the drug with your rheumatologist.

Recommended schedule

Guidelines evolve, but most programmes include:

• Baseline assessment within the first year of starting, or before if possible
• Annual screening after five years of use, or sooner if high risk
• OCT scanning of the macula and at least one visual field test
• More frequent checks if early changes appear

At the screening visit

You may have vision checks, OCT scans that map retinal layers, and visual field tests that detect small blind spots. Dilation is sometimes used. Bring your drug dose history and other medicines.

Between screenings

There is no proven home test to replace clinic screening. Report new difficulty reading, blurred central vision, distorted lines or unusual light sensations to your rheumatologist and eye team between routine visits.