International Review of Ophthalmology ›› 2025, Vol. 49 ›› Issue (6): 469-473.doi: 10. 3760/cma.j.cn115500-20240403-25609

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Impact of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors on the ocular surface#br#

Gong Xueqin, Zhang Jinyu, Zheng Zhewen, Zhou Shiyou   

  1. State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology Visual Sciences, Guangzhou 510060, China
  • Received:2024-04-03 Online:2025-12-22 Published:2025-12-22
  • Contact: Zhou Shiyou, Email: zhoushiy@mail.sysu.edu.cn

Abstract: Targeted drugs represent an effective class of anticancer agents for treating cancer patients with related gene mutations. In individuals with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-related molecular mutations, EGFR inhibitors can bind specifically to the receptor, thereby inhibiting tumor cell growth. With the increasing use of targeted therapies, their side effects—including those significantly affecting quality of life—have become more evident, particularly on the ocular surface. The administration of EGFR inhibitors has been associated with reversible eyelid ectropion and edema. Other reported ocular manifestations include trichomegaly (elongation and darkening of eyelashes), conjunctivitis, corneal epithelial damage, stromal thinning, corneal ulceration, and tear film instability. The mechanisms underlying these adverse ocular changes, however, require further investigation.

Key words: Ocular surface, Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, Targeted drugs