Real world outcomes of photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

Abstract

Objectives: We describe the real-world outcomes of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) in a single centre over nine years.

Methods: We carried out a retrospective analysis of patients with chronic CSCR who received half dose PDT in a single centre between 2011 and 2019. Visual acuity (VA) and retinal thickness (RT) was recorded between baseline visit and first recorded review visit.

Results: We included 125 eyes of 113 patients in this study. Mean age at treatment was 55.0 ± 12.1 years, with a higher male predominance (83 men, 30 women). Mean baseline VA was 0.40 ± 0.31 logMAR with a mean visual outcome gain post-PDT of 0.05 logMAR (p = 0.005). Mean baseline RT was 390 ± 82 microns with a mean reduction of RT post-PDT of 66 microns (p < 0.001). 17.6% of eyes were treated for recurrent CSCR.

Conclusion: We found overall a mean improvement in VA and structural outcomes after PDT. In the absence of randomised clinical trials this study supports the use of half dose PDT for treatment of chronic CSCR.

Fig. 1

Consort diagram summarising selection of eligible patients.

Fig. 2

Baseline retinal thickness vs baseline choroidal thickness.

Fig. 3. Functional and structural changes from baseline to post PDT laser.

Panel a shows change in mean visual acuity (VA) from baseline to post PDT laser. Panel b shows change in mean retinal thickness (RT) from baseline to post PDT laser.

Fig. 4. Functional and structural changes based on follow-up interval for whole cohort.

Panel a shows change in mean visual acuity (VA) between PDT laser and review. Panel b shows change in mean retinal thickness (RT) between PDT laser and review.