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During slit lamp examination, you notice inferocentral bilateral whorl-like yellow/brown corneal epithelial deposits. Your patient is taking several medications. Which of the following medications is MOST likely to be associated with this pattern of corneal deposits?

-Pacerone® (amiodarone)
-Zocor® (simvastatin)
-Glucotrol® (glipizide)
-Lipitor® (atorvastatin)

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Final Answer:

During slit lamp examination, inferocentral bilateral whorl-like yellow/brown corneal epithelial deposits are most likely associated with the medication Pacerone® (amiodarone).

Step-by-step explanation:

The characteristic corneal deposits described, known as whorl-like or vortex keratopathy, are a well-documented side effect of amiodarone, a medication used to treat cardiac arrhythmias. Amiodarone contains a high iodine content, and the drug and its metabolites can accumulate in various tissues, including the cornea.

The yellow/brown discoloration seen in the cornea is attributed to the presence of lipofuscin, a pigment associated with the drug's impact on cellular structures. This distinctive pattern of corneal deposits is a key clinical indicator of amiodarone use.

Patients taking amiodarone may experience changes in corneal appearance without visual impairment. However, these deposits can be visually striking during slit lamp examination. Monitoring for such ocular side effects is crucial in patients on long-term amiodarone therapy, and regular ophthalmic evaluations are recommended.

Understanding the association between the observed corneal findings and amiodarone is essential for healthcare professionals, particularly ophthalmologists and cardiologists. It informs clinical decision-making, allowing for the management of potential side effects while balancing the benefits of amiodarone in treating cardiac conditions.

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