Central serous retinopathy

What is central serous retinopathy?

Central serous retinopathy (CSR), also known as central serous chorio-retinopathy (CSCR), is a retinal disorder that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp and detailed vision. It occurs when fluid accumulates underneath the macula, leading to temporary vision blurring and distortion. CSR mainly impacts people aged 20 to 50, and it tends to affect men more than women. It is a relatively common eye condition.

What are the symptoms of central serous retinopathy?

The most common symptom of CSR is a blurred or distorted central vision in one eye. Other possible symptoms include a decrease in colour perception, contrast sensitivity, objects appearing smaller than they are (micropsia), and the appearance of dark spots in the central visual field. The symptoms may vary in severity and duration.

What are the causes and risks of central serous retinopathy?

The exact cause of CSR remains uncertain, but several risk factors have been identified:

Stress: psychological stress, including work-related stress or significant life events, is often associated with CSR.
Corticosteroid use: prolonged or excessive use of corticosteroid medications, whether taken orally, inhaled, or applied topically, has been associated with the development of CSR.
Type A personality: individuals with a Type A personality who tend to be highly competitive, hard-driven and exposed to high levels of stress, may have an increased risk of developing CSR.