Which medication is used topically for ocular surface disease and is also associated with Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS)?

Which medication is used topically for ocular surface disease and is also associated with Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS)?

• A. Cyclosporine
• B. Tacrolimus
• C. Sirolimus
• D. Mycophenolate

Answer: (A)

Cyclosporine acts as a calcineurin inhibitor, reducing T-cell activation and inflammation. When formulated as an ophthalmic emulsion, it is used topically to treat ocular surface disease (dry eye) by decreasing local inflammation and supporting tear production. The same drug class, when used systemically, is a well-known cause of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES), now called PRES, due to its effects on endothelial function and blood pressure regulation. So this medication uniquely fits both parts of the prompt: it is used topically for ocular surface disease, and its systemic form is associated with PRES. The other agents listed are not typical topicals for the eye and are more commonly used systemically, with less established links to PRES in the ocular context.

Cyclosporine acts as a calcineurin inhibitor, reducing T-cell activation and inflammation. When formulated as an ophthalmic emulsion, it is used topically to treat ocular surface disease (dry eye) by decreasing local inflammation and supporting tear production. The same drug class, when used systemically, is a well-known cause of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES), now called PRES, due to its effects on endothelial function and blood pressure regulation. So this medication uniquely fits both parts of the prompt: it is used topically for ocular surface disease, and its systemic form is associated with PRES. The other agents listed are not typical topicals for the eye and are more commonly used systemically, with less established links to PRES in the ocular context.