Pentosan Polysulfate Maculopathy: What Urologists Should Know in 2020

OBJECTIVE To conduct a review of current literature to assess whether an association exists between Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium and the development of macular disease, as it is the only oral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the management of interstitial cystitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review was conducted by the authors separately, with review methods established prior to the conduct of the review. Databases searched included PubMed, Ovid, Medline, EBSCO, and Google Scholar. A search was conducted for the terms Pentosan Polysulfate Maculopathy, Pentosan Polysulfate Retinopathy, and Interstitial Cystitis Maculopathy. All papers reporting on primary data were included. There were no study sponsors. RESULTS A total of 14 papers reporting on primary data were identified. Most papers reported on the development of macular disease in the setting of chronic pentosan polysulfate sodium exposure. No randomized controlled trials have been performed to date and data was insufficient to perform a meta-analysis. Nevertheless, patients with interstitial cystitis were more likely to receive a diagnosis of maculopathy after several years of the medication use. CONCLUSION Although the nature of the published studies renders them prone to confounders, currently available data suggest an increased risk for developing maculopathy after years of pentosan polysulfate sodium use. In light of this, and the marginal effectiveness of the medication for the average individual, we suggest that education be provided as to the possible association and that regular ophthalmic evaluation be recommended for patients who are continued on chronic Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium. (C) 2020 Elsevier Inc.

Automated summary

Most of the 14 papers identified reported on the development of macular disease after chronic exposure to pentosan polysulfate sodium. No randomized controlled trials have been conducted to date, and data was insufficient for a meta-analysis. However, patients with interstitial cystitis were more likely to be diagnosed with maculopathy after years of medication use.