Focal choroidal excavation: Review and updated pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Retinal Diseases

Background:

• Focal choroidal excavation (FCE) is a recognized morphological abnormality.
• Its detection has increased with the widespread application of optical coherent tomography (OCT).
• FCE can be idiopathic or associated with other chorioretinal conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent advancements in understanding focal choroidal excavation.
• To propose a revised perspective on the pathogenesis of FCE.
• To consolidate current knowledge on FCE, aiding further investigation.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on focal choroidal excavation.
• Analysis of imaging data from optical coherent tomography.
• Synthesis of existing etiological theories and clinical observations.

Main Results:

• FCE is increasingly diagnosed due to enhanced imaging technologies like OCT.
• Multiple classification systems exist, reflecting the complexity of FCE.
• The precise pathogenesis of FCE remains incompletely elucidated.

Conclusions:

• Focal choroidal excavation is a significant finding in retinal imaging.
• A comprehensive understanding of FCE pathogenesis requires further dedicated research.
• This review provides a foundation for future studies on FCE etiology.