Retinal Issues in Multiple Myeloma Patients: Symptoms and Solutions

Multiple myeloma causing retinal issues?

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma about two years ago, and after treatment, my symptoms stabilized for a year.
Recently, however, my left eye suddenly became blurry and I couldn't see clearly.
I visited the ophthalmology department at the hospital, and the doctor suggested it might be retinal disease, but there was no definitive answer.
They recommended that we return to the hematology-oncology department for further examination in a month.
Therefore, I would like to ask: 1.
Are there more definitive tests for these eye symptoms? (e.g., fluorescein angiography) 2.
Is there a possibility of treatment and recovery for retinal disease caused by multiple myeloma? 3.
If treatment is not possible, are there any dietary supplements that could prevent disease in the right eye or alleviate symptoms in the left eye? Is vitamin E effective for retinal disease caused by myeloma? Thank you, Doctor.

Zhang Ren'an, 70~79 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/08

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Zhang Ren'an / 72 years old / Male
Your questions may exceed my ability to answer, please forgive me.
1.
Are there more definitive examination methods for these eye symptoms? (e.g., fluorescein angiography)
A: This should be directed to an ophthalmologist.
The hematologist-oncologist can only rule out imaging studies like CT scans to determine if there is a recurrence, specifically checking if the recurrence is in the bones adjacent to the eye, and whether a tumor is pressing on the eyeball, which could affect the retina.
2.
Is there a chance for treatment and recovery from retinal disorders caused by multiple myeloma?
A: The treatment for multiple myeloma should not cause retinal disorders unless it is located on the bones next to the eye and protruding to press on the eyeball; otherwise, it should not affect the retina.
3.
If treatment is not possible, are there dietary supplements that can prevent right eye disorders or alleviate symptoms in the left eye? Is vitamin E effective for retinal disorders caused by myeloma?
A: If there is no recurrence, the retinal issues are unrelated to the myeloma.
In case of a recurrence, treatment should be pursued.
Questions regarding dietary supplements should be directed to an ophthalmologist or a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Taoyuan Hospital, Chen Sirong.

Reply Date: 2021/05/08

More Info

Hello, thank you for your inquiry regarding retinal issues in patients with multiple myeloma. It's understandable to be concerned about changes in vision, especially after a diagnosis of a serious condition like multiple myeloma. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. More Definitive Testing for Eye Symptoms: Yes, there are several advanced diagnostic tests that can provide more clarity regarding retinal issues. One such test is fluorescein angiography, which involves injecting a fluorescent dye into your bloodstream and taking photographs of the retina as the dye circulates. This can help identify any abnormalities in the blood vessels of the retina, such as leakage or blockages, which may be indicative of retinal disease. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is another non-invasive imaging technique that provides high-resolution images of the retina, allowing for detailed assessment of its structure. These tests can be very helpful in diagnosing conditions like retinal vein occlusion or diabetic retinopathy, which can occur in patients with hematological disorders.

2. Treatment Options for Retinal Changes Due to Multiple Myeloma: The treatment for retinal changes associated with multiple myeloma largely depends on the specific type of retinal disease diagnosed. If the issue is related to blood vessel changes, treatments may include laser therapy, intravitreal injections of medications (like anti-VEGF agents), or even surgical interventions in severe cases. It’s important to work closely with both your ophthalmologist and hematologist to determine the best course of action based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. In some cases, if the retinal damage is significant, complete recovery may not be possible, but treatments can often help stabilize vision and prevent further deterioration.

3. Dietary Supplements and Preventive Measures: While there is no specific dietary supplement proven to reverse retinal damage caused by multiple myeloma, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants may support overall eye health. Foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can be beneficial. Vitamin E, in particular, has been studied for its potential role in eye health, but its effectiveness specifically for retinal issues related to multiple myeloma is not well established. It’s always best to discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider, as they can interact with your treatment regimen.

In addition to dietary measures, regular eye examinations are crucial for monitoring any changes in your vision and retinal health. If you notice any new symptoms, such as flashes of light, floaters, or significant changes in vision, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.

In conclusion, while there are potential treatments and preventive measures for retinal issues in multiple myeloma patients, the specific approach will depend on the underlying cause of your symptoms. Collaborating with your healthcare team, including both your oncologist and ophthalmologist, will provide the best strategy for managing your eye health. Please ensure to follow up with your appointments and communicate any changes in your condition. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you the best in your health journey.

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