21 Feb 2025 • A study from Central India reinforces concerns about ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy (EON), demonstrating that even lower doses may pose a risk.

Among 1,676 tuberculosis patients on ethambutol, 0.28% developed EON, with longer treatment duration linked to increased thickness of the left temporal and peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer—an indicator of potential visual impairment.

Notably, even doses as low as 12.3 mg/kg caused adverse effects, suggesting that no dose is completely safe. Factors such as renal function, diabetes, HIV, and TB infection site may also influence susceptibility.

These findings emphasize the need for routine ophthalmologic monitoring in patients on ethambutol therapy.

Source: Cureus | Read Full Story