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SERVICES / MACULAR DEGENERATION

Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR)

Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a retinal condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp and detailed vision.
Retinal Diseases
Retinal Detachment
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Macular Hole
Retinal Membrane
Retinopathy of Prematurity
Cystic Edema of the Yellow
Diabetic Retinopathy
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Eye Inflammation – Uveitis
Treatments for Retinal Diseases

What is Central Serous Chorioretinopathy?

Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a retinal condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp and detailed vision.

It is characterized by the accumulation of fluid underneath the retina, leading to a localized separation of the retinal layers and causing blurred or distorted central vision.
CSCR is now considered part of the pachychoroid spectrum of diseases, a group of conditions associated with increased thickness and abnormal function of the choroid—the vascular layer located beneath the retina.

Many acute cases resolve spontaneously within a few months, but some patients develop persistent, recurrent, or chronic disease that may require treatment to prevent permanent retinal damage.
CSCR most commonly affects adults between 20 and 60 years of age and occurs more frequently in men, although women are also commonly affected.

Symptoms of CSCR

CSCR usually presents with sudden or gradually developing changes in central vision, often affecting one eye.

Common symptoms include:

  • Blurred central vision
  • Distortion of straight lines (metamorphopsia)
  • A dark or gray area in the center of vision
  • Reduced contrast or faded colors
  • Objects appearing smaller or farther away (micropsia)
Vision may fluctuate, and symptoms can vary from day to day.

Diagnosis of CSCR

Diagnosis requires a complete ophthalmic examination and specialized retinal imaging.

  • Funduscopy following dilation, revealing fluid accumulation beneath the macula
  • OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), which accurately images the height, volume, and extent of the fluid, allowing for monitoring of its progression
  • Fluorescein or indocyanine angiography, when considering possible laser treatment or in cases of atypical or chronic forms

These tests confirm the diagnosis and help determine the appropriate monitoring or treatment strategy.

What is the treatment for central serous chorioretinopathy?

In 95% of cases, central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) resolves spontaneously without any intervention. The first line of treatment is to avoid risk factors, particularly stress and corticosteroids.

Treatment is required when:

  • the fluid persists for more than 2–3 months,
  • There is a risk of permanent damage to the cells of the macula,
  • The condition becomes chronic or recurs frequently.

In these cases, the following apply:

Photodynamic therapy (cold laser)

The most effective and safest method, especially for chronic or persistent cases. It is performed using personalized settings that reduce the risk of damage to the retina.

Thermal laser

It is used in select cases, depending on the location of the lesion in relation to central vision.

Newer treatments currently under study

  • Hormone therapy (mifepristone – RU486)
  • Micropulse diode laser
They are alternative solutions for specific, challenging situations.
At Athens Vision, we offer the full range of available treatments, with a completely personalized approach for each patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

The onset and severity of COPD are associated with:

  • Stress and Type A Personality (people with high stress levels, workaholics, competitive individuals)
  • Use of cortisone (tablets, injections, inhalers)
  • Pregnancy, during which the condition may manifest more aggressively
  • Recap of the Previous Episode of KOH

Patients with a history of COPD should—whenever medically feasible—avoid the systematic use of cortisone.

A doctor who specializes in this condition

ALEXANDER CHARONIS

Ophthalmic Surgeon
Director of the Retina Department at AthensVision, Board Certified by the American and European Boards of Ophthalmology
Specialties: Vitreoretinal Surgery, Ocular Infections
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