Trusted Ophthalmologists in Greater Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s Top-Rated Retinal Specialists
The dedicated team of providers at North Park Ophthalmology have provided high-quality, comprehensive eye care to the North Hills area since 1969. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are able to give personalized treatments with our ongoing mission to always deliver the best possible clinical outcomes for you and your family.
Our retinal specialists are highly trained and experienced in performing plaquenil checks to ensure that patients are not at risk for developing retinopathy. Our practice is equipped with the latest diagnostic imaging tools to deliver accurate diagnoses, so the best possible treatment methods can be used going forward.
Quality, Patient-Centric Eye Care
Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy Experts
Plaquenil is the brand name of medication called hydroxychloroquine, and is used to treat several types of autoimmune diseases. Annual eye exams are recommended for everyone taking Plaquenil because it can result in loss of vision, also known as retinopathy, or retinal toxicity. Although vision loss is a rare side effect which typically only occurs in patients taking high doses of Plaquenil, and/or those who take it longer than five years, it may be a permanent condition. Our team of specialists offer a variety of visual tests that can detect retinal damage early on, so appropriate action can be taken to avoid permanent vision loss. When you are a patient at North Park Ophthalmology, you can put your ‘retinal specialist near me’ searches to rest. Reach out to us today to make an appointment for a Plaquenil check.
Board-Certified Ophthalmologists
Vision Screenings for Plaquenil
It’s crucial for anyone taking Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) to monitor and protect their vision for as long as they are on the medication. Be sure to let your eye doctor know if you are currently taking or planning to take this medication so that regular eye exams can be scheduled for you in advance. We recommend doing a baseline eye exam within your first year of taking the medication, and continuing to have eye exams every six months thereafter. Your eye health is of the utmost importance to us. If you are taking Plaquenil, let our ophthalmologists know so we can evaluate you for hydroxychloroquine retinopathy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Eye Exam is Needed for Plaquenil?
Your ophthalmologist may use the following tests to determine vision damage from taking Plaquenil:
- Visual field test
- OCT imaging
- Multifocal ERG
What Does Plaquenil do to the Eyes?
Although it is uncommon, Plaquenil can result in permanent vision loss in certain patients. This occurs when the light-sensitive layer of cells in the back of the eye, also known as the retina, become damaged.
Is it Safe to Take Plaquenil?
Yes, as long as you continue to check in with your PCP and undergo regular eye examinations, there is no reason to discontinue this medication. Talk to your doctor about Plaquenil side effects if you are concerned.
When Should I Get a Plaquenil Check?
If you experience one of more of the following symptoms, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist at North Park Ophthalmology right away:
- Blurry vision
- Trouble making out colors, especially red
- Poor night vision