Retrospective Large Database Study of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Treatments and Visual Outcomes Analysis in the United States

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate a large database detailing the changes in visual acuity (VA) and central subfield thickness after various treatments for central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of patients with CSCR from January 2015 to September 2022 using the Vestrum Health Retina Database of aggregated de-identified electronic medical records from retina specialists in the United States. The cases of CSCR were categorized by age, sex, and treatment provided. Results: The annual incidence of CSCR was 1.72% (61 755 of 3 598 672 patient eyes), with a mean patient age of 53 years. Male eyes comprised 71.8% of the patient population. Eighty-five percent of patients received no treatment within 1 year of diagnosis. Of the patients needing treatment, 21% received thermal laser therapy, 23% photodynamic therapy, and 49% antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) intraocular injection. Patients not receiving treatment had the best baseline and 1-year VA. All treatment groups had an increased percentage of patients gaining letters compared with patients not receiving treatment. Conclusions: Although most patients did not require treatment, those who received treatment generally did well, with a large proportion having visual gain. Statistical analysis suggests treatment has a positive impact on VA outcomes. Patients receiving combination treatment were older and had the least visual gain of the treated cohorts. Younger patients with CSCR treated with anti-VEGF (and without a secondary diagnosis of macular degeneration) had the greatest increase in VA at 1 year.