Plaquenil testing

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is a commonly prescribed medication for autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. While Plaquenil is highly effective, it's important to be aware that long-term use can sometimes lead to a serious eye condition called Plaquenil-induced maculopathy. This condition affects the retina, specifically your central vision, and can potentially cause permanent vision loss if not detected early.

Our Role in Protecting Your Vision

At Vision Care Associates, we provide comprehensive Plaquenil monitoring to help safeguard your sight while you benefit from your treatment. Our eye exams go beyond a standard vision check—we utilize advanced technology to detect even the earliest signs of retinal changes.

Specialized Testing Includes:

• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina to detect thinning or damage.

• Visual Field Testing: Measures central vision function, helping to spot early visual field defects.

• Fundus Photography: Documents the health of the retina for ongoing comparison.

• Multifocal ERG (RETeval): Measures retinal function at various points across the retina, offering another layer of sensitivity.

These tools help us detect any potential damage before noticeable vision changes occur.

Coordinated Care with Your Medical Team

We understand that your overall health care is a team effort. That’s why we work closely with your primary care physician, rheumatologist, and endocrinologist to keep them informed of your retinal health. We send detailed reports after each visit and consult with your doctors if any concerning changes are found.