In central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR), fluid accumulates beneath the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, resulting in central vision loss. To effectively manage this condition, you need to understand its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Causes
Several factors may contribute to the development of central serous chorioretinopathy, but its exact cause is unknown:
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Psychological stress has been implicated as a potential trigger for CSCR, although the mechanism is unclear.
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A long-term or systemic use of corticosteroid medications is associated with an increased risk of developing CSCR.
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CSCR is more likely to develop in individuals with Type A personality traits, such as competitiveness, time urgency, and hostility.
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CSCR has been linked to hypertension, although the relationship between the two is complex.
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CSCR may be caused by hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or with the use of oral contraceptives.
Symptoms
Symptoms of central serous chorioretinopathy may include:
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It is possible for patients to experience blurred or distorted vision due to a decrease in central vision or distortion of straight lines.
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There may be a reduction in color perception: Colors may appear less vibrant or washed out.
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It is possible for objects to appear distorted or misshaped due to metamorphopsia.
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Objects may appear smaller than they actually are due to micropsia.
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Patients with central scotomas may experience a blind spot in the center of their vision.
Diagnosis
A comprehensive eye examination is required to diagnose central serous chorioretinopathy, which may include the following:
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An eye doctor will examine the retina and look for signs of fluid accumulation beneath the macula during a dilated eye exam.
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OCT: This imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing visualizing fluid accumulation and assessing retinal thickness.
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A fluorescent dye is injected into the bloodstream and photographs are taken of the retina while the dye circulates. It identifies fluid leaks and measures retinal blood flow.
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Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA): Similar to fluorescein angiography, ICGA identifies abnormal blood flow in the retina by visualizing blood vessels.
Treatment
Based on the severity of symptoms, central serous chorioretinopathy may be treated with:
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Patients may need to be closely monitored to determine if their vision is changing or if their condition is progressing. However, in many cases, CSCR resolves on its own without treatment.
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The use of laser photocoagulation or photodynamic therapy can be used to seal leaking blood vessels and reduce fluid accumulation beneath the macula.
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Medications that block VEGF, a protein involved in abnormal blood vessel growth, may be injected into the eye to improve vision and reduce fluid leakage.
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To reduce inflammation and fluid accumulation in the retina, corticosteroid medications may be prescribed.
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Some patients with CSCR may benefit from strategies for managing stress, such as relaxation techniques, counseling, or lifestyle modifications.
Prevention
By minimizing known risk factors and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, central serous chorioretinopathy can be prevented:
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CSCR may be reduced by learning stress-reduction techniques and coping strategies.
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Maintaining a healthy blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication management may help prevent CSCR.
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CSCR may be reduced by avoiding long-term or systemic use of corticosteroid medications when possible.
As a result, central serous chorioretinopathy is characterized by fluid accumulation beneath the macula, causing blurred vision and other visual disturbances. In order to manage this condition effectively and preserve vision, it is essential to understand its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Individuals with CSCR can optimize their vision outcomes and overall eye health by identifying and addressing risk factors, monitoring symptoms closely, and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary.
