Some ocular manifestations of systemic drug abuse

Abstract

Optometrists are increasingly likely to see patients who use illicit drugs, which may cause ocular signs which mimic other problems. This paper reviews pharmacologic effects on the eye of depressants, hallucinogens, inhalants, marijuana, opiates, and stimulants including amphetamines and cocaine. Drug abusers suffer from AIDS, CMV retinitis, fungal and bacterial endophthalmitis, quinine poisoning and talc retinopathy. The ocular signs and symptoms of these diseases are discussed. The most common presenting complaints in an optometric setting are emphasized.