Central Serous Retinopathy

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Central Serous Retinopathy

Central Serous Retinopathy is an idiopathic condition that leads to fluid buildup under the central part of the retina (macula). The fluid comes from a layer of blood vessels beneath the retina, known as the choroid. While central serous retinopathy can affect both eyes, it typically doesn’t occur in both at the same time.

Risk Factors, Causes, & Symptoms

The exact cause of central serous retinopathy is unknown, but it is most commonly found in middle-aged men and associated with steroid medication use (oral, inhaled, topical, injected), periods of high stress, Type A personality, and sleep apnea.

Patients with central serous retinopathy may experience blurry vision, distortion or a dark spot in their central vision, dimming of their central vision, or changes in how they perceive colors.

Treatments

Most cases of central serous retinopathy resolve on their own and require no treatment. If the fluid in the retina does not improve over the first 3 - 6 months, treatment with eye drops or a specialized non-thermal laser (photodynamic therapy) may be recommended. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable treatment plan for your situation. If the fluid remains too long, it could lead to permanent vision loss. While central serous retinopathy can resolve, it may return, so ongoing monitoring and/or treatment might be necessary.