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Retina·Mission Viejo, Orange County

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Treatment in Mission Viejo, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Retinal damage that can occur from long-term use of the medications chloroquine (Aralen) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), which are used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The toxicity can cause irreversible central vision loss.

Mission Viejo families should know that chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity can affect patients of all ages. Our practice provides age-appropriate evaluation and treatment, with clear explanations that help every family member understand the care plan.

Dr. Bonakdar on Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity diagnosis and treatment for patients in Mission Viejo and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

Retinal damage that can occur from long-term use of the medications chloroquine (Aralen) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), which are used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The toxicity can cause irreversible central vision loss.

How is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity treated?

Treatment options include There is no treatment to reverse the damage., The most important step is to stop the medication if toxicity is confirmed., Regular screening with visual field testing and retinal imaging (OCT, autofluorescence) is crucial for early detection in patients taking these drugs.. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

Common symptoms include Often asymptomatic in early stages, Difficulty reading, Blurred central vision, A ring-like blind spot (paracentral scotoma), Changes in color vision. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity?

Parents and families in Mission Viejo should watch for these symptoms in both children and adults, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes:

  • Often asymptomatic in early stages
  • Difficulty reading
  • Blurred central vision
  • A ring-like blind spot (paracentral scotoma)
  • Changes in color vision

How is Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity treated?

We work with Mission Viejo families to select treatments that fit both the patient's needs and the family's schedule, with clear instructions parents and patients can follow at home:

There is no treatment to reverse the damage.
The most important step is to stop the medication if toxicity is confirmed.
Regular screening with visual field testing and retinal imaging (OCT, autofluorescence) is crucial for early detection in patients taking these drugs.

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity FAQs for Mission Viejo Patients

Common questions from Mission Viejo patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Mission Viejo families, we provide age-appropriate testing for children and adults alike, with clear explanations that help parents understand their child's diagnosis.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. We help Mission Viejo families choose treatments that fit the patient's age and the family's schedule, with follow-up plans designed around school and work calendars.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. We offer before- and after-school appointment times for Mission Viejo families, and can schedule siblings together to minimize trips to our office.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Care for Mission Viejo Residents

Mission Viejo patients seeking care for chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. We serve Mission Viejo families by making appointments efficient and educational, ensuring parents understand their child's diagnosis and every patient leaves with a clear care plan. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About Mission Viejo

Largest master-planned community in the US with exceptional schools and safety

Population: 94,000+

Affluent familiesHigh educational attainmentActive lifestyleCommunity-oriented

Languages Spoken in Mission Viejo

Our practice serves the diverse Mission Viejo community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishMandarinKoreanFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for Mission Viejo

  • Pediatric eye exams and vision screening
  • Myopia control and management
  • Sports vision for young athletes
  • Digital eye strain from screens
  • Learning-related vision problems

Conveniently Located Near Mission Viejo Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Mission Viejo patients living near:

Lake Mission Viejo
The Shops at Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo Country Club
Mission Hospital
Oso Creek Trail

Getting to Our Office from Mission Viejo

Drive Time
30 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
15 mi

Mission Viejo patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 30 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Mission Viejo Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Lake Mission Viejo
  • Mission Viejo High School Area
  • Oso Creek

Zip codes: 92691, 92692, 92694

Don't Delay Treatment for Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Without timely care, chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Mission Viejo patients.

Why Mission Viejo Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity changes that may not be visible during standard examination.

Early Detection Focus

Retinal conditions are often treatable when caught early—our comprehensive exams screen for pathology before symptoms appear.

Retinal Specialist Network

When Mission Viejo patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

Structured follow-up schedules ensure chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Specialist in Mission Viejo

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine toxicity and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Mission Viejo

See why your neighbors in Mission Viejo trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Chloroquine / Hydroxychloroquine Toxicity Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Mission Viejo and Orange County residents.