Reversible Hypotony and Choroidal Effusion Following the Use of Pergolide for Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Purpose: To alert clinicians of the possibility of reversible drug-induced occult hypotony and choroidal effusion following the long-term use of pergolide. Methods: Annotations were made while the case was observed. The clinical records of the patient were reviewed retrospectively. Results: A 74-year-old Caucasian male with primary open-angle glaucoma presenting with reduced vision in both eyes and an inflamed right eye. Examination revealed bilateral hypotony, right anterior chamber inflammation, and right choroidal effusion. The right intraocular inflammation resolved completely after a short course of topical and oral antibiotics in addition to topical steroids. Nevertheless, the bilateral hypotony and right choroidal effusion persisted. Only the discontinuation of pergolide allowed the complete resolution of the patient’s presenting symptoms and signs. Conclusions: Pergolide is known to cause pericardial and pleural effusion, and generalized oedema. However, its association with choroidal effusion and hypotony has never been reported.

• Choroidal effusion
• glaucoma
• hypotony
• Parkinson’s disease
• pergolide

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.