Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome-like reaction associated with ipilimumab and nivolumab immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for metastasis of choroidal melanoma

Abstract

Purpose: To present a rare case of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS)-like presentation associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for metastatic choroidal melanoma. Observations: A 67-year-old non-myopic Caucasian female presented with bilateral worsening vision, flashes, and floaters after receiving two doses of ipilimumab and nivolumab for metastatic class 2 peripheral choroidal melanoma. Fundus imaging of the right eye revealed hypopigmented, extra-foveal scattered chorioretinal lesions with foveal granularity. Fluorescein angiogram and autofluorescence of the right eye demonstrated corresponding hyperfluorescent and hyperautofluorescent lesions in a wreath-like configuration. Optical coherence tomography of the right eye revealed subretinal fluid. Due to concurrent systemic side effects, checkpoint inhibitor therapy was paused and the patient was started on oral prednisone. At her one month follow up visit, her vision in her right eye returned to baseline and subretinal fluid resolved. Conclusions: This is the first reported case of a MEWDS-like chorioretinopathy after two cycles of ipilimumab/nivolumab therapy for metastatic choroidal melanoma. As immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy is still an evolving field, more research is needed to characterize ocular side effect profiles of these agents.

Keywords

• Ipilimumab
• Medical oncology
• Melanoma
• Nivolumab
• Ocular oncology
• MEWDS