Diagnosis and treatment

How is central serous retinopathy diagnosed?

To diagnose CSR, an ophthalmologist (medical retina specialist) will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes which may need to be dilated with eye drops, do a visual acuity test and take your detailed medical history.

Additional diagnostic tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), choroidal thickness on EDI OCT, OCT Angio, fluorescein angiography FFA and indocyanine green dye ICG tests may be conducted to confirm the presence of fluid leakage and assess the extent of retinal involvement.

Treatment for central serous retinopathy

In many cases, CSR resolves spontaneously within a few months without specific treatment. However, for individuals with persistent symptoms or those at risk of complications, various treatment options are available:

• Observation: mild or early-stage cases of CSR may only require regular monitoring without any treatment, as the condition often resolves spontaneously.
• Lifestyle modifications: lowering stress levels, taking care of mental well-being, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help in resolving and preventing episodes of CSR.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT): in some / advanced cases, PDT may be recommended to seal off leaking blood vessels in the choroid and reduce fluid accumulation in the retina.
• Laser therapy: micro-pulse and low-power laser treatment can be used to target and seal the leaking areas of the retinal pigment layer, promoting fluid absorption.
• Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections: certain medications, such as anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs can be used in CSR cases with associated abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina.

Central serous retinopathy can cause temporary vision impairment and discomfort, but with timely diagnosis and appropriate management, most patients experience a full recovery. If you notice any changes in your central vision, it is crucial to consult your optician and ophthalmologist promptly.