ABSTRACT
Meibomian glands are modified sebaceous glands located within the tarsal plate of the eyelids, and secrete a lipid and protein mixture called meibum. Isotretinoin alters the gene expression pattern in meibomian gland epithelial cells, leading to inhibition of cell proliferation and increased cell death. Punctate epithelial erosions or superficial punctate keratitis is a finding associated with dry eye disease, reflecting the damaged ocular surface with dryness on the corneal epithelium. Photophobia is commonly seen in association with various ocular inflammatory conditions such as uveitis, keratitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and dry eye disease. An examination by an ophthalmologist and/or neurologist is important if a patient complains of a headache during isotretinoin treatment. Corneal opacities or idiopathic intracranial hypertension are rare, but important adverse events and require immediate discontinuation of isotretinoin treatment. Retinoid treatments are associated with various ocular adverse events that should be monitored during treatment with an ophthalmologic consultation as an option.
