Unintentional secondary exogenous corticosteroid exposure and central serous chorioretinopathy

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to describe a possible association between unintentional secondary exogenous corticosteroid exposure and central serous chorioretinpathy (CSCR).

METHODS: A retrospective review of three patients diagnosed with CSCR in one or both eyes and a history of possible unintentional secondary corticosteroid exposure. Clinical history, exam findings, optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and clinical course were reviewed.

RESULTS: Three patients, who did not use corticosteroids, reported suspected unintentional secondary corticosteroid exposure from living with family members or partners using dermatologic corticosteroid cream and/or inhalers frequently. Two of the three patients had a history of recurrent CSCR, one patient involving both eyes. After taking precautions to avoid secondary corticosteroid exposure, all three patients had complete resolution of CSCR without further recurrence during follow-up ranging from 2 to 4 years.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CSCR should be queried for both primary and possible unintentional secondary routes of corticosteroid exposure, which may contribute to this condition.