OCT Evaluation of VHRS in CSCR
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Vertical hyperreflective Strips in Central Serous Chorioretinopathy: A Retrospective Optical Coherence Tomography Study
IRAS ID
363685
Contact name
Paul Steptoe
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS Lothian
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 1 days
Research summary
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is an eye condition where fluid builds up beneath the central part of the retina, causing a localised swelling that can blur or distort vision. The exact cause of CSCR remains uncertain, but current explanations do not fully account for all of its features.
In recent years, serous retinal detachments have also been described in acute retinal necrosis (ARN), a severe infection of the retina caused by herpes viruses such as varicella zoster virus. Research suggests these viruses can reach the eye by travelling along the optic nerve and then spreading through the retina. In a recent study from our group, we reported distinctive linear changes on retinal imaging (optical coherence tomography, or OCT) within the outer retina. These changes preceded the development of localised fluid pockets, supporting the idea that viral spread through retinal tissue can trigger inflammation and fluid accumulation.
Because CSCR also produces serous retinal detachments, we hypothesise that the underlying mechanism may be similar, potentially involving a virus. If so, we would expect to see the same linear changes in CSCR that we observed in ARN.
The purpose of this study is to review OCT scans performed at our hospital over the past 5 years in patients with CSCR. We will look specifically for evidence of these vertical hyperreflective lines within the outer retina, to see whether they are present before or above areas of fluid.
If these changes are confirmed, it would suggest that viral infection may play a role in CSCR. This could open new avenues for treatment, including the possibility of antiviral therapies, which have not yet been tested in this condition.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/EE/0099
Date of REC Opinion
17 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion