Corticosteroids usage and central serous chorioretinopathy: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Corticosteroids are widely used for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• The potential association between corticosteroid use and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis evaluating the association between corticosteroid usage and the risk of developing central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases up to April 2019.
• Six case-control studies investigating the link between corticosteroids and CSC were included in the meta-analysis.

Main Results:

• Patients using corticosteroids exhibited a significantly higher risk of CSC (OR 4.050, 95% CI 2.270 to 7.220).
• Increased CSC risk was observed with oral, injected, and nasal spray corticosteroid administration, but not with inhaled forms.
• Statistical significance was confirmed across various corticosteroid administration routes (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Corticosteroid use is demonstrably associated with an elevated risk of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).
• Enhanced retinal health surveillance is crucial for patients prescribed corticosteroids.
• Individuals diagnosed with CSC should endeavor to avoid corticosteroid use whenever feasible.