Central serous choroidopathy

Definition

Central serous choroidopathy is a disease that causes fluid accumulation under the retina. The fluid leaks from the choroid (blood vessel layer under the retina). The retina is the nerve layer lining the inner wall of the back of the eye. It receives the visual information that we see, and transmits this information to the brain.

Alternative Names

Causes

The cause of this condition is unknown. Most patients are young men with aggressive, "type A" personalities, but anyone can be affected.

Stress appears to be a risk factor. The condition can also occur as a complication of steroid drug use.

Symptoms

• A dim and blurred blind spot in the center of vision
• Objects appearing smaller or farther away with the affected eye
• Distortion of straight lines with the affected eye

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can usually diagnose central serous choroidopathy with a dilated examination of the retina. Fluorescein angiography is a test that provides a photographic image of the retinal circulation after a dye has been injected into the bloodstream. It will confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Most cases clear up without treatment in 1 or 2 months. Patients with more severe leakage and more severe visual loss, or those in whom the disease lasts longer, may be helped by laser treatment to seal the leak.

Patients who are using steroid drugs (for example, to treat autoimmune diseases) should discontinue their use if possible. Any change in steroid drug use in these conditions MUST be under the supervision of a physician.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most patients recover good vision without treatment. The disease returns in about half of all patients, and has a similarly good outlook. Rarely, patients develop permanent scars that damage their central vision.

Possible Complications

A small number of patients will have complications of laser treatment that impair central vision. That is why most patients will be allowed to recover without treatment.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if visual symptoms worsen.

Prevention

There are no known preventive measures. Although there is a clear association with stress, there is no evidence that tranquilizer drugs have any benefit in preventing or treating central serous choroidopathy.