Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR), affects the macula (the macula is the area of your retina that gives you your detailed central vision) and its cause is not understood. CSCR occurs when a break forms in the pigment layer of the retina. Leakage from the blood vessels that are underneath the retina flow up through the break, causing a small and localized retinal detachment to form.

This problem affects men more than women and usually occurs in people between the ages of 25 and 55 (although it can occur in elderly patients as well). Stress is thought by many to contribute to this problem but this is an inconsistent association. Use of oral, injectable, or inhalational steroids can exacerbate CSCR in susceptible individuals. Although CSCR typically resolves on its own, it often can recur. In extreme cases, CSCR can lead to permanent loss of some central vision.

Patients with CSCR or at risk for the disease should perform an Amsler grid test at home each day. The test is available by clicking here.

Signs and Symptoms
centrally located blind spot
wavy lines and otherwise distorted vision
blurred central vision

Diagnosis
Most often the doctor can diagnose CSCR during a fundus exam, but usually a fluorescein angiogram is used to verify the diagnosis and gather additional details of the problem including extent and severity.

Treatment
Treatment is not required for most patients with CSCR. In some cases, laser treatment is applied to stop the leakage and promote visual improvement.

The Retina Eye Center provides this information for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an retina professional regarding the viewer's own medical care. The Retina Eye Center disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.