Liverpool CSCR study version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Liverpool Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Study
IRAS ID
129990
Contact name
Jayashree Sahni
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Research summary
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is a type of macular degeneration resulting from the accumulation of fluid underneath the retina, the photographic film at the back of the eye and is the second most common cause of reduced central vision in the working age population with a mean age onset usually between 41 and 45 years. The cause of CSCR still remains incompletely understood. In majority of cases, the fluid resolves spontaneously with mild damage. However, upto 30% have recurrences which can lead to permanent drop in central vision. \nThe origin of the fluid under the retina remains debated. Two layers beneath the retina, the retinal pigment epithelium and the vascular layer underneath, the choroid, have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Integrity of both structures is essential for the optimum function of the retina. The abnormality of choroidal function is proposed for causing the leakage of water, electrolytes and proteins inducing the RPE detachment, and subsequently inducing localised retinal detachment. The cause for the choroidal dysfunction remains elusive. Some retrospective studies have reported an increase in the choroidal thickness compared to normal eyes in patients with CSCR. \nWe believe that the choroidal dysfunction may be due to a failure of choroidal autoregulation. Autoregulation is the ability of a vascular bed to maintain blood flow despite changes in perfusion pressure. To date, the information on the autoregulation of choroidal blood flow in CSCR patients is limited.\nWith this research we want to study the changes in choroidal structure and blood flow in eyes of patients with CSCR as compared to age-matched normals. \nWe also want to study the changes in the retinal structure and function and its correlation with the choroidal changes in patients with CSCR.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/WM/0237
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion