Final answer:
Whorl keratopathy is a condition with whorl-like opacity patterns on the cornea, often caused by certain lipophilic drugs that accumulate in the corneal epithelium, notably amiodarone, chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whorl keratopathy, also known as cornea verticillata, is a condition in which there are whorl-like opacities on the cornea that can be caused by the accumulation of certain medications. Particularly, drugs associated with the development of whorl keratopathy include amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic agent, and chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, which are antimalarial and anti-inflammatory medications used, among other indications, to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. These drugs are lipophilic and tend to accumulate in the corneal epithelium, leading to the characteristic whorl-like patterns that may, or may not, affect vision. Although these medications are the more commonly known causes of whorl keratopathy, other drugs may also lead to this condition. It is important to monitor patients on these medications for ocular changes.