Stress and other risk factors in central serous chorioretinopathy-A myth?

Since the initial description of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) by von Graefe in 1866, various risk factors for this condition have been described and discussed. In addition to established factors, such as the use of corticosteroids, psychosomatic factors, particularly stress, have increasingly come into focus in the literature. Studies have shown that psychological stress and emotional stressors not only impair well-being but also trigger physiological responses that could increase the risk of CSC. This review article summarizes the most frequent risk factors for CSC and examines their influence on the pathophysiology and progression of the disease. For many of the currently discussed risk factors it remains unclear whether they have a causal relationship or should be viewed more as epiphenomena. The modification of risk factors such as stress reduction and smoking cessation is currently being debated; however, due to insufficient evidence further prospective studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to provide clear treatment recommendations.