Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

Fluid accumulation beneath the macula

Overview

Central serous chorioretinopathy, CSCR, is a condition in which fluid accumulates under the retina at the macula, producing a localized serous detachment. It is thought to arise from abnormal, hyperpermeable choroidal vessels and dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium, which allow fluid to leak beneath the retina. It most often affects men in young and middle adulthood, and it is strongly associated with corticosteroid use in any form, as well as with psychological stress, pregnancy, and some stimulant medications. Symptoms include blurred or dim central vision, a gray spot, distortion, and objects appearing smaller than they are. OCT shows the subretinal fluid, and fluorescein or indocyanine green angiography can reveal the leakage pattern. Many acute episodes resolve spontaneously over a few months, but recurrences are common and some people develop a chronic form with lasting damage. Treatments for persistent cases include photodynamic therapy and laser. It is considered part of the pachychoroid spectrum of disease.