Annual Report 2023

Department of Ophthalmology

Kaori Kobayashi, Tomoaki Oguro

Introduction

 The incidence of ocular toxicity due to anticancer drugs has increased with the development of new medications and expanded indications. This toxicity can result in vision loss, significantly impacting quality of life. Therefore, early detection and management of ocular side effects are critical challenges. To address these needs, the National Cancer Center Hospital East appointed a full-time ophthalmologist and an orthoptist in 2023, ensuring the fast and efficient evaluation of ocular toxicity in patients undergoing clinical trials.

The Team and What We Do

 By conducting regular screenings and ocular examinations during clinical trials, we help ensure that trials progress smoothly and without delays. This approach has led to a significant reduction in deviations from trial protocols. When ocular side effects occur, we promptly communicate our findings to physicians. We immediately refer patients to specialized eye hospitals for cases requiring surgical intervention.

Research Activities

 We have begun collecting data, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans, to explore the mechanisms behind ocular toxicities caused by anticancer drugs.

Clinical Trials

 In 2023, we participated as sub-investigators in 86 clinical trials.

Education

 We conducted several lectures for oncologists and pharmacists to raise awareness of the ocular side effects of anticancer drugs.

Future Prospects

 Our primary goal is to identify and address changes in the eyes caused by anticancer drugs and propose solutions for managing these side effects. To better understand these mechanisms, we continue to collect accurate data and will share our findings with the broader medical community. Moving forward, we plan to collaborate with subspecialist ophthalmologists to expand our understanding of ocular toxicities related to anticancer treatments.