Two case reports of zoledronic acid-induced uveitis

Abstract

Zoledronic acid (zoledronate) is a bisphosphonate used predominantly as a second-line treatment for post-menopausal osteoporosis. Its administration is associated with an acute phase reaction. Here, we present two cases of anterior uveitis following initial administration of zoledronate. In the first case, an 80-year-old lady presented with right eye pain and decreased visual acuity 24-hours post-infusion. Uveitis was diagnosed and sub-conjunctival injection of corticosteroids was required. In the second case, a 78-year-old lady presented with right eye pain, vomiting and decreased acuity 24-hours after infusion. She was treated with topical steroids and required cataract surgery to normalise visual acuity. Patients prescribed zoledronate should be warned of the risk of ocular side effects and asked to report promptly for treatment if they develop a red, painful eye or blurred vision.