Central serous retinopathy complicating systemic lupus erythematosus: a case series

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder with wi despread manifestations including the eye. Central serous retinopathy (CSR) has been associated as a complicating event in SLE, although it is uncommo n. We present a case series of four female Chinese SLE patients who develop ed CSR during the course of their systemic disease. All four presented clin ically with typical CSR. Angiographic findings did not show evidence of cho roidal ischaemia or delayed choroidal filling. Resolution of the serous ret inal detachment occurred in all four patients. Recovery of vision was seen in three patients. The clinical outcome was similar to that occurring in th e usual male population. Central serous retinopathy as a manifestation of S LE may be caused by various factors. These include SLE-associated choroidop athy, systemic hypertension, renal disease, retinal pigment epithelial dysf unction and glucocorticoid therapy.