Photodynamic therapy for variant central serous chorioretinopathy: efficacy and side effects

Ophthalmologica. 2011;225(4):207-10. doi: 10.1159/000324050. Epub 2011 Feb 12.

Abstract

Background: Retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) is a recognised associated finding in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). We report our experience in treating patients using photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a variant of chronic CSC that presents with only an isolated PED. We present long-term follow-up data and novel observations on the pattern of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes seen after treatment.

Methods: Retrospective case series.

Results and discussion: CSC with subfoveal PED can be associated with a poor visual prognosis especially when the PED becomes chronic. PDT has been used to treat typical CSC with good outcomes. Three eyes in 3 patients were successfully treated with PDT, using the Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Photodynamic Therapy protocol. However, marked RPE disturbance was observed after treatment directly overlying the areas of brisk choroidal hyperpermeability.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Central Serous Chorioretinopathy / drug therapy*
  • Central Serous Chorioretinopathy / pathology
  • Central Serous Chorioretinopathy / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fundus Oculi
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Photochemotherapy / methods*
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Porphyrins / therapeutic use*
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / drug effects
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / pathology
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence
  • Verteporfin
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Porphyrins
  • Verteporfin