CSC most often occurs in young and middle-aged adults. For unknown reasons, men develop this condition more commonly than women. Vision loss is usually temporary but, in some cases, may become chronic.

Causes of Cystic Serous Retinopathy

The causes of CSC are not yet fully understood. It is thought that any systemic exposure to a corticosteroid drug may trigger or worsen Cystic Serous Retinopathy. Corticosteroids are found in allergy nose sprays and anti-inflammatory skin creams available over the counter, and these medications are frequently prescribed to treat a variety of medical conditions.

Natural corticosteroids and Cystic Serous Retinopathy

A link between CSC and emotional distress has been identified. It is believed that the natural corticosteroids produced by the body in times of stress may trigger CSC in some people.

Diagnostic tests for CSC

To diagnose Cystic Serous Retinopathy, a thorough dilated eye examination will be performed in both eyes, and images of the retina will be taken. The images produced by our advanced diagnostic systems, along with those obtained during a comprehensive eye exam, can identify the presence of Cystic Serous Retinopathy. The tests used could include:

  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT): Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a retinal scan that is helpful in diagnosing CSC; it enables Dr. Soroudi to see the retina at a microscopic level. This makes it possible to identify very small pockets of fluid or retinal scarring (once the fluid has subsided) in acute or chronic CSC.
  • Fluorescein angiography: This test involves injecting a dye into an arm vein. Pictures are taken of each eye to detect characteristic leakage of the dye beneath the patient’s retina. This test, along with OCT, allows the doctor to diagnose CSC and distinguish it from other retinal diseases causing fluid in the macula (the central portion of the retina).
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Treatment and prognosis

CSC can resolve by itself, and visual recovery typically occurs within a few weeks to months without treatment. If you take any corticosteroid medications, it may be advised to stop using these medications if possible, but you must check with your prescribing physician to ensure that it is safe to stop. Suddenly discontinuing high-dose steroid medications can be dangerous, and you may need to slowly wean off the medication or continue to take it to treat a health condition.

A customized solution tailored to your needs

Depending on the severity and timeline of your symptoms, Dr. Soroudi will choose the best treatment option, which can start with observation of the condition and close monitoring. Early detection of CSC is very helpful, and most clients with CSC can be treated successfully. Under Dr. Soroudi’s watchful care, the risk of developing permanent vision loss is greatly diminished.

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Treatments for chronic Cystic Serous Retinopathy

Several therapies can treat chronic CSC, including thermal laser treatments, oral medications, and eye injections. A “cold laser,” called “photodynamic therapy,” is also effective and is often used to treat the source of fluid leakage under the retina in cases of chronic CSC. With photodynamic therapy, a drug called verteporfin is injected into the arm, where it travels to the eye. The verteporfin is activated by shining a special cold laser on the source of leakage in chronic CSC. This treatment may prevent future recurrences. 

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Why choose Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Centers?

Your vision is of great importance and maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision significantly enhances life’s journey. At Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Centers, each of our three state-of-the-art facilities is equipped with among the most advanced technology currently on the market. We have in-house surgery centers to serve you; there is no need to go to another location for your treatment, as it all happens under our care. Dr. Soroudi is widely recognized as one of the best eye surgeons in the USA and is called upon to treat VIPs the world over. When you are under his care, you can expect a superior experience, advanced technology, comfort, discretion, and personalized attention. 

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