Escitalopram-related bilateral cystoid macular edema

Abstract

We want to describe a case of bilateral macular edema caused by escitalopram (a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). A patient who reported bilaterally decreased vision 1 month in duration was referred to our retinal clinic. Optical coherence tomography revealed bilateral cystoid macular edema. He was taking escitalopram (single-isomer S-citalopram), which has not been reported to cause CME. Escitalopram is a widely used drug. More cases of CME should be examined to determine a possible drug association. Physicians prescribing escitalopram should consider possible effects on eye health.