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emedicine.medscape.com

Central Serous
Chorioretinopathy
Updated: Feb 21, 2023
Author: Kean Theng Oh, MD; Chief Editor: Andrew A Dahl, MD, FACS

Overview

Background
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a disease in which a serous detachment of the neurosensory retina occurs
over an area of leakage from the choriocapillaris through the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It is a self-limited
macular disease marked by distortion, blurry vision, and metamorphopsia. Other causes for RPE leaks, such as
choroidal neovascularization, inflammation, or tumors, should be ruled out to make the diagnosis. Choroidal
neovascularization is also an uncommon complication of CSCR.

CSCR has, over time, proved difficult to classify and decribe which has in turn, made treatment and study design
difficult.[1] Classically, CSCR is caused by one or more discrete isolated leaks at the level of the RPE as seen on
fluorescein angiography (FA). However, it is now recognized that CSCR may present with diffuse retinal pigment
epithelial dysfunction (eg, diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy, chronic CSCR, decompensated RPE) characterized
by persistent neurosensory retinal detachment overlying areas of RPE atrophy and pigment mottling. Broad areas of
granular hyperfluorescence that contain one or many subtle leaks are seen using FA. This presentation is generally
referred to as chronic CSCR. Most authors consider the definition of chronic CSCR to be the persistence of subretinal
fluid for greater than 3 months.[2, 3] The CSCR international study group has woked using multiple imaging modalities
to develop a clinical classification system that would provide consistency among clinicans using fundus
autofluorescence, fundus fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography and optical coherence tomography.
[4]

CSCR most commonly occurs in males and is associated with psychosocial factors such as stress and type A
personality and with corticosteroid exposure. It has a high rate of recurrence.

Treatment consists of observation, focal laser, reduced fluence photodynamic therapy, and mineralocorticoid
antagonists.

Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of CSCR is still unclear but it is well established that the choroid and choroidal parameters as
well as its influence on the retinal pigment epithelium play key roles. Other factors, including catecholamines and
corticosteroids which have long been understood to play a role in CSCR likely exert their effect thru their influence on
the choroid and RPE.

Previous hypotheses for the pathophysiology have included abnormal ion transport across the RPE and focal choroidal
vasculopathy. The advent of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography has highlighted the importance of the choroidal
circulation to the pathogenesis of CSCR. ICG angiography has demonstrated both multifocal choroidal
hyperpermeability and hypofluorescent areas suggestive of focal choroidal vascular compromise. With further imaging
advances, the theory of a pachychoroidal driven process has incorporated findings such as increased choroidal

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thickness, dilated choroidal veins and thinning of the inner choroid to the CSCR disease process. It has also linked
CSCR to other choroidal disease processes such as polyploidal choroida. vasculopathy. Some investigators believe
that initial choroidal vascular compromise subsequently leads to secondary dysfunction of the overlying RPE.[5, 6, 7,
8]

Studies using multifocal electroretinography have demonstrated bilateral diffuse retinal dysfunction even when CSCR
was active only in one eye.[9] These studies support the belief of diffuse systemic effect on the choroidal vasculature.

Corticosteroids have a direct influence on the expression of adrenergic receptor genes and, thus, contribute to the
overall effect of catecholamines on the pathogenesis of CSCR. Consequently, multiple studies have conclusively
implicated the effect of corticosteroids in the development of CSCR. Carvalho-Recchia et al showed in a series that
52% of patients with CSCR had used exogenous steroids within 1 month of presentation as compared with 18% of
control subjects.[10]

Daruich et al examined the role of the mineralocorticoid pathway in the pathophysiology of CSCR. Study in a rodent
model led to the observation that overexpression of a mineralocorticoid receptor expressed in vascular endothelial
cells can result in up-regulation of calcium-dependent potassium channel, which is associated with vasodilation.[11]
This association may suggest the therapeutic mechanism underlying treatment with mineralocorticoid antagonists.

Type A personalities, systemic hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea may be associated with CSCR.[12] The
pathogenesis here is thought to be elevated circulating cortisol and epinephrine, which affect the autoregulation of the
choroidal circulation. Furthermore, Tewari et al demonstrated that patients with CSCR showed impaired autonomic
response with significantly decreased parasympathetic activity and significantly increased sympathetic activity.[13]

Recent genome wide association studies have identified genes which may play a role in CSCR based on choroidal
parameters.[14] Choroidal thickness and the complement system were used as starting points to identify CHF and
VIPR2 as potential susceptibility loci.[15] CHF has previously been identified as a disease susceptibility gene in age
related macular degeneration (AMD). Subsequent studies demonstrated protective and risk conferring haplotypes for
chronic CSCR within the CHF gene.[16] These studies have highlighted the potential role that the complement
cascade plays in the pathogenesis of CSCR. Genome wide association studies published in 2022 also further showed
the close association between age related macular degeneration, demonstrating that CSCR shared disease
susceptibility loci for age related macular degeneration and macular choroidal neovascularization with AMD. Known
genes associated with AMD that were shared by CSCR included CHF, C2/FB, TNFRSF10A and ARMS. These authors
also identified two new loci not associated with AMD but associated with chronic CSCR in the Japanese population -
WBPL1 and GATA5.[17] In examining macular neovascularization, authors found associations shared between CSCR
and both AMD and polyploidal choroidal vasculopathy. Loci implicated in the developmemt of macular
neovascularization in CSCR and AMD included again, ARMS, CHF while loci associated with both CSCR and
polyploidal choroidal vasculopathy included COL4A3 and B3GALTL.[18]

Helicobacter pylori infection has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of CSCR. Cotticelli et al showed an
association between H pylori infection and CSCR.[19] The prevalence of H pylori infection was 78% in patients with
CSCR compared with a prevalence of 43.5% in the control group. The authors proposed that H pylori infection may
represent a risk factor in CSCR. While still controversial, other groups have continued to pursue this hypothesis based
on case series.[20, 21] Zavoloka et al also reported that treatment of H pylori infection decreased the duration and
symptoms associated with CSCR.[22] Can et al demonstrated that choroidal thickness increases with H pylori infection
and then normalizes after treatment.[23] However, others have found no association with choroidal thickness and H
pylori infection.[24]

Epidemiology
Frequency
United States

Kitzmann et al reviewed the incidence of CSCR in Olmsted County, Minnesota. They evaluated the period from 1980-
2002. They found the mean annual age-adjusted incidence of CSCR to be 9.9 cases per 100,000 population for men
and 1.7 cases per 100,000 population for women.[25]

International

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Liew et al reviewed the epidemiology of CSCR in Australia. They found an incidence rate of 10 cases per 100,000
population in men. The rate of CSCR in this study was 6-fold higher in men than in women.[21] In the population-
based Beijing Eye Study 2011, the estimated prevalence of CSCR in the Chinese population older than 50 years was
0.14%.[26]

Mortality/Morbidity

Serous retinal detachments typically resolve spontaneously in most patients, with most patients (80-90%) returning to
20/25 or better vision. Even with return of good central visual acuity, many of these patients still notice
dyschromatopsia, loss of contrast sensitivity, metamorphopsia, or, rarely, nyctalopia.

Patients with classic CSCR (characterized by focal leaks) have a 40-50% risk of recurrence in the same eye.

Risk of choroidal neovascularization from previous CSCR is considered small (< 5%) but has an increasing frequency
in older patients diagnosed with CSCR.[27, 28]

A subset of patients (5-10%) may fail to recover 20/30 or better visual acuity. These patients often have recurrent or
chronic serous retinal detachments, resulting in progressive RPE atrophy and permanent visual loss to 20/200 or
worse. The final clinical picture represents diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy.

Otsuka et al reviewed a subset of patients who presented with a severe variant of CSCR over a mean follow-up period
of 10.6 years.[29] These patients were characterized by multifocal lesions and bullous retinal detachments with shifting
fluid and fibrin deposition. During the follow-up period, 52% of patients experienced recurrences of CSCR ranging from
1-5 episodes. However, 80.4% of eyes (n=46) returned to a visual acuity of better than 20/40 and 52% returned to a
visual acuity of 20/20 or better. Eventually, patients reached a state of quiescent disease.

Tsai et al reviewed a population-based cohort of CSCR patients from the Taiwan national health insurance research
database from 2000-2007. They identified CSCR as an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke. After adjusting for
age, sex, and comorbidities, CSCR had a 1.56-fold increased risk of stroke compared with controls.[30] Using this
same database, patients with CSCR were also found to be at increased risk for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
(7.85 times) and central retinal vein occlusions (3.15 times).[31, 32]

Race

CSCR appears uncommon among African Americans but may be particularly severe among Hispanics and Asians.
However, one study suggests that CSCR is underdiagnosed in African Americans, underestimating its prevalence in
this group of patients.[33]

Sex

Classically, CSCR is most common in male patients aged 20-55 years with type A personality. This condition affects
men 6-10 times more often than it affects women. However, as society has shifted, the prevalence of CSCR in women
has increased. Spaide et al reported a male-to-female ratio of 2.6:1.[34]

Age

Patients may present with a later age of onset (>50 y). Spaide et al reviewed 130 consecutive patients with CSCR and
found the age range at first diagnosis to be 22.2-82.9 years, with a mean age of 49.8 years.[34]

Changes in the presentation and demographics of CSCR are observed with increasing age at first diagnosis.
Classically, patients tend to be male and present with focal, isolated RPE leaks in one eye.

Patients diagnosed at age 50 years or older are sometimes found to have bilateral disease, demonstrate a decreased
male predominance (2.6:1), and show more diffuse RPE changes. Furthermore, these patients are more likely to have
systemic hypertension or a history of corticosteroid use.[35] These older patients are more likely to have choroidal
neovascularization.

Prognosis

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The overall prognosis of CSCR is relatively good. Up to 90% of patients return to 20/25 or better vision after a single
bout of CSCR, though with mild residual symptoms. However, with multiple recurrent episodes and RPE
decompensation, visual acuity changes.[29] Development of choroidal neovascularization can also adversely affect the
visual prognosis, although this is rare.[27, 28]

Serous retinal detachments typically resolve spontaneously in most patients, with most patients (80-90%) returning to
20/25 or better vision.[36, 37, 38] Risk factors for bullous serous retinal detachments in CSCR appear associated with
systemic diseases such has kidney failure and autoimmune diseases. Systemic steroid use is also associated with this
presentation. Poor prognostic signs include poor vision at presentation and history of renal transplant.[39]

Patients with classic CSCR (characterized by focal leaks) have a 40-50% risk of recurrence in the same eye.[36, 38,
40]

Even with return of good central visual acuity, many of these patients still notice dyschromatopsia, loss of contrast
sensitivity, metamorphopsia, or nyctalopia.[36]

These patients often have recurrent or chronic serous retinal detachments, resulting in progressive RPE atrophy and
permanent visual loss to 20/200 or worse. The final clinical picture represents diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy.

Risk of choroidal neovascularization from previous CSCR is considered small (< 5%) but has an increasing frequency
in older patients diagnosed with CSCR.[27, 40] These patients can be treated with intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF
agents, including aflibercept, ranibizumab, or bevacizumab.

Patient Education
Because of the concomitant risk of CSCR recurrence of and the small risk of choroidal neovascularization, patients
with CSCR must be educated regarding the risk of choroidal neovascularization, which requires prompt intervention.

If possible, patients should avoid stressful situations. Patient participation in stress-reducing activities (eg, exercise,
meditation, yoga) is recommended.

Recent evidence associates systemic hypertension with CSCR, but it is unknown as to whether careful control of
systemic hypertension will reduce the incidence of CSCR.

Presentation

History
Patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) typically present with acute symptoms of visual loss and
metamorphopsia (especially micropsia) in one eye. Other symptoms include decreased central vision and a positive
scotoma.

The decreased vision usually is improved by a small hyperopic correction.

Other clinical signs include a delayed retinal recovery time following photostress, loss of color saturation, and loss of
contrast sensitivity.

Physical
Clinical examination shows a serous retinal detachment but no subretinal blood. The neurosensory retinal detachment
may be very subtle, requiring contact lens examination for detection.[40]

Pigment epithelial detachments, RPE mottling and atrophy, subretinal fibrin, and, rarely, subretinal lipid or lipofuscinoid

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flecks also may be seen.[41] Choroidal neovascularization may develop after multiple episodes of CSCR.

Causes
Previous hypotheses for the pathophysiology have included abnormal ion transport across the RPE and focal choroidal
vasculopathy. The advent of ICG angiography has highlighted the importance of the choroidal circulation to the
pathogenesis of CSCR.

ICG angiography has demonstrated both multifocal choroidal hyperpermeability and hypofluorescent areas suggestive
of focal choroidal vascular compromise. Some investigators believe that initial choroidal vascular compromise
subsequently leads to secondary dysfunction of the overlying RPE.[42]

Type A personalities and systemic hypertension may be associated with CSCR, presumably because of elevated
circulating cortisol and epinephrine, which affect the autoregulation of the choroidal circulation.[43, 44]

Studies using multifocal electroretinography have demonstrated bilateral diffuse retinal dysfunction even when CSCR
was active only in one eye. This supports the belief of diffuse systemic effect on the choroidal vasculature.[9]

Allibhai et al reported an association with sildenafil citrate and CSCR.[45] Fraunfelder and Fraunfelder further
evaluated the association of CSCR with sildenafil.[46] The authors reviewed 1500 cases of sildenafil associated ocular
side effects. Eleven of these cases described men with CSCR. The symptoms resolved following cessation of sildenafil
in 8 of 11 patients but recurred in 3 of these patients upon restarting sildenafil. They determined that a causal
relationship could not be determined as a result of the cyclic nature of CSCR though patients with refractory CSCR
should consider cessation of sildenafil use.

Another hypothesis involves activation of the mineralocorticoid pathway. Inappropriate or over-activation of

mineralocorticoid pathways in ocular tissues could lead to vasodilation in the choroid. This pathway would also link
CSCR to co-morbidities such as systemic hypertension and psychological stress. Animal models stimulated by
aldosterone demonstrate clinical findings similar to acute CSCR.[47]

The complement cascade has also been implicated in chronic CSCR. Certain polymorphisms of complement factor H
and variants in the C4B have been associated with chronic CSCR in certain populations.[48, 49]

Systemic associations of CSCR include organ transplantation, exogenous steroid use, endogenous hypercortisolism
(Cushing syndrome), systemic hypertension, sleep apnea, systemic lupus erythematosus, pregnancy,
gastroesophageal reflux disease, and use of psychopharmacologic medications.[12, 44, 50, 51, 52] Carvalho-Recchia
et al showed in a series that 52% of patients with CSCR had used exogenous steroids within 1 month of presentation
as compared with 18% of control subjects.[10] Haimovici et al evaluated systemic risk factors for CSCR in 312
patients and 312 control subjects.[53] Systemic steroid use (odds ratio [OR], 37.1) and pregnancy (OR, 7.1) were most
strongly associated with CSCR. Other risk factors included antibiotic use, alcohol use, untreated hypertension, and
allergic respiratory disorders.

A recent study by Piccolino et al indicated that vigorous physical activit could increase the probability of disease in
susceptible individuals by 5.58x. They proposed that episodic hypertensive episodes could result in a break down of
hemodynamic balance within the choroid thereby precipitating an attack of CSCR. [54]

DDx

Diagnostic Considerations
CSCR may have a broad range of manifestations considering its presentation from acute to chronic CSCR. Sahoo et
al described CSCR as a "great mimicker and...one of the commonest causes of referral."[55, 56, 57, 58]

Ozkaya et al found that, in a series of patients with suspected pattern dystrophy, 55% of eyes were misdiagnosed and
actually had age-related macular degeneration or CSCR as the underlying disease.[58]

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Differential Diagnoses
Best Disease

Choroidal hemangioma

Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV)

Exudative (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Exudative Retinal Detachment

Macular Hole

Nonexudative (Dry) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Pattern dystrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium

Pseudophakic (Irvine-Gass) Macular Edema

Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment (RRD)

Choroidal Neovascular Membranes

Tuberculous choroiditis

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) Disease

Workup

Workup

Laboratory Studies
Laboratory tests, in general, are not helpful in the diagnosis of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR), although a
recent case report identified an elevated level of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 in the serum of patients with CSCR.

Imaging Studies
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) reveals many aspects of the pathophysiology of CSCR, ranging from subretinal
fluid, pigment epithelial detachments, and retinal atrophy following chronic disease. OCT is especially helpful in
identifying subtle, even subclinical, neurosensory macular detachments. Spaide correlated lipofuscinoid deposition of
material in CSCR that might mimic vitelliform lesions in pattern dystrophies.[59] OCT showed accumulation of this
material on the outer surface of the retina in neurosensory detachments.

A 45-year-old man presented with micropsia and blurry vision OS. His visual acuity was 20/15 OD and 20/30 OS. The
OCT shows subretinal fluid localized under the foveal center. Six weeks later, the subretinal fluid had resolved and his

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vision had recovered to 20/15 OU.

FA of classic CSCR shows one or more focal leaks at the level of the RPE. The classic "smokestack" appearance of
the fluorescein leak is seen only in 10-15% of cases. FA of diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy demonstrates focal
granular hyperfluorescence corresponding to window defects and blockage caused by RPE atrophy and clumping with
one or more areas of subtle continued leakage.[40]

Fluorescein angiography in the early recirculation phase of a patient with a localized neurosensory detachment in the
macula from central serous chorioretinopathy. Note the focal hyperfluorescence.

Fluorescein angiography in the late recirculation phase of the same patient as in the image above. Note the distribution
of leakage of fluorescein dye within the neurosensory detachment.

ICG angiography has shown hypofluorescent areas early in the angiogram followed by late hyperfluorescence and
leakage in choroidal vasculature. Often, multiple areas of leakage are seen on ICG angiography that are not evident
clinically or on FA. According to some researchers, characteristic mid phase findings on ICG angiography allow
differentiation from occult choroidal neovascularization in older individuals. Multiple patches of hyperfluorescence
presumably are due to choroidal hyperpermeability, which, in later phases, results in silhouetting or negative staining of
larger choroidal vessels.

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Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) is starting to be of greater significance in the diagonsis and staging of CSCR.
Hyperautofluorescence in CSCR arises from both the RPE and photoreceptor outersegments which have been
phagocytized by macrophages. FAF typically shows punctate dots and atrophy in chronic CSCR.
Hypoautofluorescence can correspond to the presence of subretinal fluid.[60, 61, 62]

Newer technology to evaluate the retina is available. Ooto et al showed that adaptive optics scanning laser
ophthalmoscopy is useful in evaluating cone abnormalities associated with visual acuity loss in eyes with CSCR.[63]

Other Tests
Multifocal electroretinography has been used to identify focal regions of decreased retinal function, even in
asymptomatic or clinically inactive eyes. Chappelow and Marmor first described the persistently reduced focal
electrical responses on multifocal electroretinography in eyes with resolved CSCR.[64] Furthermore, investigators,
including Lai et al, are using multifocal electroretinography as a means of assessing the efficacy and safety of new
treatment modalities for CSCR.[65]

Microperimetry (using the Nidek MP-1 microperimeter) has shown that, despite clinical resolution of CSCR, there is
lower retinal sensitivity in the macula even once visual acuity returned to 20/20. Ojima et al showed that areas of
reduced sensitivity were typically focal and localized to clinically apparent regions of irregular RPE. Fixation studies
showed stability of central fixation.[66, 67]

Staging
The CSCR international study group has developed a staging process for CSCR based on fundus autofluorescence,
fundus fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography. They were able
to develop moderate inter-reader agreement among broad categories of CSCR - simple, complex, no CSCR, as well
as activity of CSCR - primary, recurrent, resolved.[4] Nevertheless, additional work needs to be pursued for staging
and description of CSCR in order to better study the wide range of treatment options ranging from systemic
medication, photodynamic therapy, and thermal laser.

Treatment

Medical Care
Multiple oral medications have been studied for both resolving chronic CSCR and shortening the course of classic
CSCR. Most medications have only been trialed and reported in small series and pilots with varying results. Currently,
a medication group that has spread in use over the last decade have been the mineralocorticoid antagonist class of
antihypertensive medication based on the underlying hypothesis of glucocorticoid overactivation in the pathogenesis of
CSCR.[68]

Chin et al reported a series of 120 patients who had some response to mineralocorticoid antagonists, eplerenone or
spironolactone. They specifically evaluated patients with recalcitrant disease and found a positive effect in half of the
patients treated.[69] Other authors also have demonstrated the potential for mineralocorticoid antagonists in the
treatment of CSCR.[70, 71] Over time, however, the benefit of mineralocorticoid antagonists have been called into
question by multiple studies, including the VICI study. This study was a randomized double blinded study performed at
22 hospitals in the United Kingdom with a total of 114 participants. The study concluded based on visual acuity that
eplerone was not superior to placebo and questioned its use for the treatment of CSCR.[72] While the conclusions of
the study have been criticized as overly harsh,[73] other studies have also concluded based on indicies other than
visual acuity that eplerenone provided minimal if any benefit.[74, 75] Nevertheless, other recent studies suggest some
mild benefit [76, 77, 78, 79] and 1 group suggested the use of topical dexamethasone as an adjunct to eplerenone
treatment in recalcitrant CSCR, even in light of the putative effects of steroids on the course of CSCR.[80] A meta-
analysis of studies examining mineralocorticoid antagonists in CSCR concluded that there was anatomical benefit but

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less benefit for visual acuity and that the administration of this class of medication for CSCR was safe.[81, 82] At this
stage, mineralocorticoid antagonists are still widely used in the treatment of chronic CSCR and are relatively safe
though acknowledged to have only some mild beneficial effect.

Efficacy of tranquilizers or beta-blockers is unknown. Furthermore, an evaluation of 230 consecutive patients with
central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) found that use of psychopharmacologic agents (eg, anxiolytics,
antidepressants) was a risk factor for CSCR. Use of corticosteroids in the treatment of CSCR should be avoided
because it may result in exacerbation of serous detachments already present.

Tatham and Macfarlane described a case series of patients who were treated with propranolol for CSCR.[83] They
suggested that beta-blockade had a hypothetical mechanism in treating CSCR. Further evidence is needed to
substantiate this potential treatment.

Ketoconazole has been studied in pilot trials based on its effect as a cortisol inhibitor.[84] A recent trial suggested that
400-600mg ketoconazole a day could reduce the duration of subretinal fluid significantly from 16 weeks in controls to 7
weeks in the treatment arm. Rescue therapy by laser was also reduced in the treatment group.[85]

Nielsen et al proposed the use of mifepristone in the treatment of chronic CSCR in a case report.[86, 84]

Forooghian et al evaluated the safety and efficacy of finasteride, an inhibitor of dihydrotestosterone synthesis, in 5
patients for chronic CSCR. Macular thickness and subretinal fluid decreased while treated and recurred immediately
upon planned cessation of the medication.[87, 84]

Steinle et al reported a single patient successfully treated with oral rifampin after having chronic subretinal fluid for
more than 2 years’ duration. The fluid resorbed after 1 month of rifampin therapy.[88] Shulman et al conducted a
prospective pilot study on 12 patients with chronic CSCR and concluded that oral rifampin may be a treatment option
in patients with longstanding chronic CSCR.[89] However, a case of rifampin-induced hepatotoxicity has also been
reported during treatment of CSCR.[90, 84]

Kurup et al reported a retrospective series of 9 patients who were treated with low-dose oral methotrexate with
resolution of subretinal fluid without any apparent complications.[91, 84]

Intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) has been used to successfully treat the complication of choroidal neovascularization
following CSCR.[92, 93, 94] Multiple studies have evaluated intravitreal bevacizumab in the treatment of CSCR
uncomplicated by choroidal neovascularization. Despite multiple studies suggesting a trend toward benefit, other
studies show that bevacizumab does not significantly affect the course of CSCR.[95, 96]

Other anti-VEGF agents such as aflibercept (Eylea) and ranibizumab (Lucentis) are also being used to treat the
neurosensory detachment of CSCR, both in the presence and in the absence of choroidal neovascularization. Bae et
al conducted a prospective randomized study comparing intravitreal ranibizumab to low-fluence photodynamic therapy
in chronic CSCR. At 6 months, they concluded that the anatomic outcomes with ranibizumab injections were “not
promising” compared with low-fluence photodynamic therapy.[97] Semeraro et al compared intravitreal bevacizumab to
low-fluence photodynamic therapy for treatment of chronic CSCR. The series was limited to 22 patients total and no
statistically significant difference could be identified between the two groups.[98]

Surgical Care
Laser photocoagulation

Laser photocoagulation should be considered under the following circumstances: (1) persistence of a serous retinal
detachment for more than 4 months, (2) recurrence in an eye with visual deficit from previous CSCR, (3) presence of
visual deficits in opposite eye from previous episodes of CSCR, and (4) occupational or other patient need requiring
prompt recovery of vision. Laser treatment also may be considered in patients with recurrent episodes of serous
detachment with a leak located more than 300 µm from the center of the fovea.[99, 100] Laser treatment shortens the
course of the disease and decreases the risk for recurrence of CSCR, but it does not appear to improve the final visual
prognosis.[101, 102] Some evidence suggests that patients with chronic CSCR (diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy)
may have better prognosis with laser treatment.[103] Subthreshold micropulse laser techniques have also been
studied for the treatment of acute or persistent leaks in CSCR and while effective, may require more treatments.[103,
104]

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Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of chronic CSCR first was reported in 2003. PDT is known to have a
direct effect on the choroidal circulation but was limited by potential adverse effects, such as macular ischemia.
Authors, such as Lai et al, are now describing reduced dosing of verteporfin, while the use of reduced fluence has
been shown to be therapeutically effective in age-related macular degeneration. The rates of adverse events have
decreased significantly with these modifications.[105, 65, 106] Subsequent studies, using PDT protocols established
by the Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration With Photodynamic Therapy (TAP) Study, have reported case
series that support the use of PDT, especially in the setting of chronic CSCR with neurosensory detachments. PDT is
believed to hasten both fluid resorption and visual recovery. Yannuzzi et al described using ICG angiography to first
identify areas of choroidal hyperpermeability that were then targeted with PDT.[106]

Lai et al described the use of half-dose verteporfin in the treatment of CSCR.[65] Of the eyes treated, 85% showed
complete resolution of the neurosensory retinal detachment and/or pigment epithelial detachment by 1 month after
treatment. Reibaldi et al evaluated the treatment efficacy of standard-fluence PDT versus low-fluence PDT using
microperimetry. The study found improvement of macular sensitivity following treatment along with greater efficacy in
treatment overall using low-fluence PDT.[107] Bae et al compared low fluence PDT to intravitreal ranibizumab in a
prospective randomized trial. Although only 8 eyes were randomized to each group, ranibizumab did not appear
promising when compared with low fluence PDT. After a single treatment, 6 of the 8 eyes in the PDT group had
resolution of subretinal fluid whereas 4 of the 8 eyes in the ranibizumab group ultimately required PDT rescue
treatment.[108] Multiple authors have begun to use PDT as a first-line therapy for acute focal leaks from CSCR with
reported success. Most papers describe resolution of subretinal fluid within 1 month of treatment. Half dose PDT also
has been studied and shown to be effective.[109, 110] Long term studies have demonstrated the safety of half-dose
and low-fluence PDT in the treatment of CSCR.[109, 111]

Comparisons of PDT and focal laser techniques have been inconclusive regarding 1 modality over the other. Some
studies have demonstrated efficacy in resolution and prevention of recurrences for PDT whereas others have
demonstrated the same for focal or micropulse laser. Both modalities appear to be agreed to be of benefit both for
resolution of subretinal fluid as well as prevention of subsequent recurrences.

Chan et al demonstrated that there is evidence of choroidal vascular changes on ICG with regard to choroidal
permeability and vascular remodeling.[112] ICG mediated photothrombosis is a technique using a low-intensity laser
combined with ICG dye infusion to treat focal areas of hyperpermeability in the choroid. Like PDT, it addresses
treatment to the level of the choroidal vasculature.[113] An 810-nm laser is applied after infusion of ICG dye. Without
prior ICG dye, investigators also have used the 810-nm laser as transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) with moderate
anecdotal success.[114, 115] However, Penha et al described severe retinal thermal injury in a 31-year-old man
following this treatment modality and recommended caution for this adverse event following ICG mediated TTT
treatment.[116]

Activity
At one time, stress reduction was considered a mainstay of controlling recurrences and duration of CSCR. Potentially,
patient participation in stress-reducing activities (eg, exercise, meditation, yoga) can still be recommended.

A recent study by Piccolino et al indicated that vigorous physical activity could increase the probability of disease in
susceptible individuals by 5.58x. They proposed that episodic hypertensive episodes could result in a break down of
hemodynamic balance within the choroid thereby precipitating an attack of CSCR.[54]

Complications

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A small minority of patients develops choroidal neovascularization at the site of leakage and laser treatments. A
retrospective review of cases shows that one half of these patients may have had signs of occult choroidal
neovascularization at the time of treatment. In the other patients, the risk for choroidal neovascularization may have
been increased by the laser treatment.[28, 102] Anti-VEGF agents are the mainstay of treatment of choroidal
neovascularization from CSCR.

Acute bullous retinal detachment may occur in otherwise healthy patients with CSCR. This appearance may mimic
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, or uveal effusion. A case report also has
implicated the use of corticosteroids in CSCR as a factor increasing the likelihood of subretinal fibrin formation.
Reducing the corticosteroid dose frequently will lead to resolution of the serous retinal detachment.

RPE decompensation from recurrent attacks leads to RPE atrophy and subsequent retinal atrophy. RPE
decompensation is a manifestation of CSCR but may also be considered as a long-term complication.[37]

Long-Term Monitoring
Most patients with CSCR receive follow-up care for 3 months to determine whether the fluid resolves spontaneously.
Even following resolution of symptoms, patients should be cautioned about the high likelihood of recurrence and the
potential for development of choroidal neovascularization.

Medication

Medication Summary
The use of mineralocorticoid antagonists such as aldosterone or eplerenone for the treatment of chronic and recurrent
central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is rising among retinal specialists worldwide. Eplerenone is administered at
25-50 mg orally each day. Multiple clinical trials have evaluated and supported the efficacy of mineralocorticoid
antagonist use. Coordination with the patient's primary care provider is recommended, and, in many instances, the
primary care provider will substitute one of the patient's existing antihypertensive medications with the
mineralocorticoid antagonist. Hyperkalemia is a primary side effect and complication in the use of mineralocorticoid
antagonists. 14% of patients in the VICI trial developed some degree of hyperkalemia.[72] Other case reports and
series have evaluated a range of potential medical treatments for CSCR, such as rifampin. Currently, only case series
and reports support the use of other medications.

Tatham and Macfarlane described a case series of patients who were treated with propranolol for CSCR.[83] They
suggested that beta-blockade had a hypothetical mechanism in treating CSCR. Further evidence is needed to
substantiate this potential treatment.

Nielsen et al proposed the use of mifepristone in the treatment of chronic CSCR in a case report.[86]

Intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) has been used to successfully treat the rare complication of choroidal
neovascularization following CSCR.[92, 93, 94] Other anti-VEGF agents have also beem sucessfully used in the
treatment of choroidal neovascularization from CSCR.

Contributor Information and Disclosures

Author

Kean Theng Oh, MD Consulting Staff, Associated Retinal Consultants, PC

Kean Theng Oh, MD is a member of the following medical societies: Alpha Omega Alpha, American Academy of
Ophthalmology, American Society of Retina Specialists, Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology,
Michigan Society of Eye Physicians & Surgeons

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 02/04/23 20.20

Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.

Specialty Editor Board

Simon K Law, MD, PharmD Clinical Professor of Health Sciences, Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye
Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine

Simon K Law, MD, PharmD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology,
Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, American Glaucoma Society

Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.

Steve Charles, MD Founder and CEO of Charles Retina Institute; Clinical Professor, Department of Ophthalmology,
University of Tennessee College of Medicine

Disclosure: Received royalty and consulting fees for: Alcon Laboratories.

Chief Editor

Andrew A Dahl, MD, FACS Assistant Professor of Surgery (Ophthalmology), New York College of Medicine
(NYCOM); Director of Residency Ophthalmology Training, The Institute for Family Health and Mid-Hudson Family
Practice Residency Program; Staff Ophthalmologist, Telluride Medical Center

Andrew A Dahl, MD, FACS is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology,
American College of Surgeons, American Intraocular Lens Society, American Medical Association, American Society
of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists, Medical Society of the State of
New York, New York State Ophthalmological Society, Outpatient Ophthalmic Surgery Society

Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.

Additional Contributors

Brian A Phillpotts, MD Ophthalmologist, St Luke's Cataract and Laser Institute

Brian A Phillpotts, MD is a member of the following medical societies: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American
Diabetes Association, American Society of Retina Specialists, Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology,
Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology

Disclosure: Nothing to disclose.

Acknowledgements

The authors and editors of Medscape Reference gratefully acknowledge the contributions of previous author, James C
Folk, MD, to the development and writing of this article.

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