Amplified HCQ Retinal Toxicity in a Patient With an LRAT Mutation

Case Study: A heterozygous LRAT mutation may have contributed to progressive retinal degeneration following HCQ exposure.

By: Mohan Bhadriraju, BA, Damla Oncel, MD, Mathew W. MacCumber, MD, PhD

Retinal Physician June 2, 2026

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Damla Oncel, MD

Specialties: Ophthalmology

Bio: Damla Oncel, MD, is a medical doctor specializing in retinal diseases. She has contributed to research on hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)-associated retinal toxicity, particularly examining the genetic factors that may amplify risk, such as mutations in the LRAT gene involved in the visual cycle. Her work highlights the interaction between pharmacologic exposure to immunomodulating drugs and genetic predisposition to retinal degeneration. This focus situates her expertise within medical retina and genetic influences on ocular conditions.

Amplified HCQ Retinal Toxicity in a Patient With an LRAT Mutation

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