Background anatomy of the retina explained.
The retinal pigment epithelium (or RPE) is a layer of specialized cells underneath the retina. Beneath both the retina and RPE is the choroid, which has many blood vessels. One of the functions of the RPE is to form a barrier that prevents fluid leakage from these choroidal blood vessels into the retina.
What is central serous retinopathy and what causes it?
Central serous retinopathy (also called CSR) is a condition that occurs when the RPE allows fluid to leak from the choroid below. The fluid can then accumulate under the retina, causing blurred or distorted vision. CSR most commonly affects young and middle-age adults and men more often than women. CSR may be caused by steroid use, including common nasal sprays for allergies. Other times, it can be caused by periods of extreme stress. However, in many patients, no specific cause can be found.
What is the treatment for central serous retinopathy?
In most cases, central serous retinopathy does not need treatment as it improves on its own. Vision usually recovers within a few months. If the condition is severe or chronic, several therapies are available, including laser treatment, oral medications, and eye injections. Other non-medical holistic options may be effective as well. Because every patient’s case is different, treatment is highly individualized.