Modified Photodynamic Therapy Treatment of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a condition characterized by serous detachment of the neurosensory retina at the level of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) as a result of leakage from the choriocapillaris. The pathophysiology of CSC is not completely understood rendering treatment and management decisions more complex. When an observational approach and topical medical therapy are unsuccessful, a surgical intervention may be necessary. Here, we examine the role of modified photodynamic therapy (PDT) in recurrent CSC with multiple points of RPE leakage.

A 37-year-old male patient presented a case of recurrent CSC in the left eye. After an initial presentation of a large area of submacular fluid, near complete resolution was seen in 8 weeks using a topical NSAID protocol and close monitoring. Two weeks later, a second serous neurosensory detachment larger than the first occurred. The recurrent CSC was successfully treated with focal grid laser photocoagulation and modified PDT resulting in complete resolution and return of visual function 4 months after the initial presentation.

CSC is a multifactorial condition with the potential to severely impair daily visual function. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography retinal imaging has provided a remarkable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of CSC. The addition of FA and ICG can create a highly precise picture of the subretinal fluid. Although most patients will spontaneously resolve, a subset of patients may benefit from medical therapy including topical nepafenac 0.1%. A smaller subset will require surgical intervention. Modified PDT with ICG-guided laser photocoagulation has a growing body of evidence as an effective treatment for recurrent CSC. Modified PDT may be the best course of action for chronic, non-resolving RPE leakage for both paramacular and foveal leaks leading to minimization of adverse visual effects.