Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Idiopathic neurosensory retinal detachment associated with corticosteroid exposure and stress
This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →
What is Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?
Central serous chorioretinopathy is the fourth most common non-surgical retinopathy following age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion, with an estimated incidence of 9.9 per 100,000 in men and 1.7 per 100,000 in women. The pathophysiology involves choroidal hyperpermeability with diffuse choroidal vasodilation, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) dysfunction with focal leaks, and accumulation of serous fluid between the neurosensory retina and RPE, classically at the posterior pole.
Risk factors include male gender (predominantly aged 30-50), type-A personality, psychological stress, exogenous corticosteroid exposure (oral, topical, inhaled, intra-articular, even nasal sprays), endogenous hypercortisolism (Cushing's syndrome, pregnancy), sympathetic activity excess, hypertension, sleep apnea, helicobacter pylori infection, and genetic susceptibility (CFH, ARMS2 polymorphisms). Clinical features include sudden unilateral central scotoma, metamorphopsia, micropsia, decreased contrast sensitivity, dyschromatopsia, and reduced visual acuity (typically 20/30-20/100), with characteristic OCT findings of subretinal fluid and pigment epithelial detachments.
Acute CSC typically resolves spontaneously within 3-6 months in 80-90% of cases. Chronic CSC (>6 months) and recurrent CSC may cause progressive RPE atrophy, photoreceptor loss, and irreversible visual decline. Complications include macular atrophy, choroidal neovascularization (CNV), polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, and bullous retinal detachment. Treatment options include observation for acute cases, photodynamic therapy (PDT), micropulse subthreshold laser, focal photocoagulation, eplerenone (mineralocorticoid antagonist), and corticosteroid discontinuation.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Sudden central vision changes
- Metamorphopsia or distorted vision
- Recent corticosteroid use with vision changes
- Acute decrease in visual acuity
- Central scotoma
- Stress-related vision symptoms
- Recurrent episodes of central vision changes
- Bilateral central vision changes
- Worsening of chronic CSC
- Type-A personality with vision concerns
- Pregnancy-related vision changes
- Cushing's syndrome with eye symptoms
- Treatment evaluation for chronic CSC
Treatment Methods
Which Department to Visit?
You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.
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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.
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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.