Escitalopram induced bilateral angle closure secondary to ciliochoroidal effusion – An interesting case report

Abstract

Escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is widely used for the treatment of depression in psychiatric and primary care practices. We report a rare instance of escitalopram-induced bilateral secondary angle closure and acute onset myopic shift in a young male treated for depression. Ultrasound biomicroscopy obtained after the onset of his symptoms revealed bilateral ciliochoroidal effusion. His signs and symptoms stabilized completely within two weeks of stopping the drug. The presentation of escitalopram-induced idiosyncratic reaction with bilateral angle closure and ciliochoroidal effusion was rarely reported in Indian ethnic eyes. A detailed history taking and meticulous clinical evaluation helped us differentiate from acute primary angle closure glaucoma.

Keywords

• ciliochoroidal effusion
• drug-induced angle closure
• escitalopram
• secondary angle closure