Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

Central serous chorioretinopathy is a medical condition where fluid builds up behind the retina. It can cause sudden or gradual vision loss. The fluid comes from a layer of tissue under the retina, called the choroid. The layer of cells between the retina and choroid is called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). When the RPE does not work as it should, fluid can build up under the retina, resulting in visual distortion.

Comparison between a normal retina (left) and eye with Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (right)

What are the Symptoms of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?

Symptoms of central serous chorioretinopathy can include:

• Dim, distorted or blurred central vision
• A dark area in your central vision
• Straight lines appearing bent, crooked or irregular in your affected eye
• Objects appearing smaller or further away than they are
• White objects have a brownish or dull tinge

Men in their 30s to 50s are more likely to develop central serous chorioretinopathy than women. Stress is a major risk factor. People under a lot of stress may be more likely to develop the condition.

How is Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Treated?

Most cases of central serous chorioretinopathy clear up in one or two months without the need for any treatment. During this time, your Mann Eye ophthalmologist will examine your eye to see if the liquid is going away.

Sometimes, there is significant vision loss or the fluid does not go away. In these cases, laser treatment, photodynamic therapy or oral medications may be used.

About half of patients who have had central serous chorioretinopathy will deal with it again. For this reason, it is important to have regular follow-up exams with a Mann Eye retina specialist.