A research assistant at Charlotte Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates, Donnie Rhett Koonce completed his master’s degree in biomedical science and works on research projects tackling ophthalmic disorders. Most recently, Donnie Rhett Koonce contributed to two research papers studying two forms of retinal disease namely, syphilitic retinopathy and hydroxychloroquine retinopathy.
Syphilitic retinopathy is a form of retinal disease that develops as a complication of syphilis infection. Caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, syphilis can affect different parts of the eye including the retina. Symptoms of the disease including light sensitivity, blurry vision, and gradual vision loss. Syphilis is treated with the antibiotic penicillin and for certain ophthalmic complications, an additional course of steroids may be prescribed.
Hydroxychloroquine-induced retinopathy is a condition triggered by the use of the anti-malarial drug Plaquenil containing the active ingredient, hydroxychloroquine. This ingredient can result in irreversible vision loss. To reduce the risk of developing vision loss, the drug must be properly dosed so as not to damage the retina.
Donnie Rhett Koonce 