CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY IN WOMEN

Background: Central serous chorioretinopathy is a disorder that typica lly affects young and middle-aged men. Although extensive information is available pertaining to the clinical features of central serous cho rioretinopathy in men, little is known about this condition in women. Materials and Methods: The authors reviewed the medical records and ph otographic files of women who received a diagnosis of central serous c horioretinopathy. The women were divided into three groups for data an alysis: idiopathic, exogenous corticosteroid use, and pregnancy. Resul ts: Fifty-one women with active central serous chorioretinopathy were evaluated. The findings in women with idiopathic central serous chorio retinopathy were similar to those described in men, with the exception that women tend to be older at the time of onset. Central serous chor ioretinopathy in women taking exogenous corticosteroids more likely wa s characterized by bilateral involvement and subretinal fibrin. Centra l serous chorioretinopathy in pregnant women typically developed in th e third trimester and resolved spontaneously within 1-2 months after d elivery. Conclusion: Idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy is si milar in women and men, with the exception that women tend to be older at the time of onset. The finding of exogenous corticosteroid use in a significant number of women in our study provides further support th at cortisol may play a role in the development of central serous chori oretinopathy. The mechanism by which cortisol influences the developme nt of central serous chorioretinopathy is unclear.