Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSR)
Image of central serous chorioretinopathy.
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSR) is a condition well known to retina specialists for over 50 years, yet we still don’t understand its cause. CSR occurs in otherwise healthy young males between the age of 25-45 and is unrelated to any systemic medical conditions. CSR presents with blurred vision, distortion or a central blind spot. Usually, vision is abnormal in only one eye, but frequently there are signs of CSR in both eyes. Examination shows fluid under the retina in the macula (center of vision, 20/20 area). Fluorescein angiography can be useful in detecting the point of leakage under the retina. Ocular coherence tomography (OCT) is helpful in monitoring the course of the condition.
Imaging of central serous retinopathy using OCT.
Treatment of CSR is usually unnecessary, since it is a self-limited condition lasting 1-3 months. In situations where a patient is unable to function, medication or laser treatment can slow the duration of the condition. One factor which may make the condition worse is exposure to steroids. This can be in the form of pills, inhalers, creams, or injections. CSR may be a recurrent condition, and in some cases become chronic and lead to permanent loss of vision.