Ayurvedic Management of Central Serous Retinopathy

Abstract

Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is characterised by spontaneous serous detachment of neurosensory retina in the macular region, with or without retinal pigment epithelium detachment. The diminished vision may be associated with either metamorphopsia, micropsia, or a relative positive scotoma. Some cases are non-resolving causes visual impairment as well recurrence of CSCR is known in 30-50% of all the cases. Treatment modalities include observation, avoidance of systemic steroids, lifestyle modifications, pan-LASER photocoagulation, and Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (anti-VEGF) injections. In Ayurveda CSCR can be considered under the umbrella of Timira, and on the basis of symptoms can be included particularly in Dwitiya Patalagata Timira. Symptoms of blurred vision and metamorphopsia indicate mainly Vata vitiation and accumulation of fluid in the retinal layers indicated Kapha vitiation. Case & Intervention:  A 38 -year -old female, diagnosed case of CSCR in left eye for 7 months sought Ayurvedic treatment for blurring of vision. She underwent one course of Ayurvedic management, comprised of oral medication, including Pathyadi Kwatha, Eranda Bhrishta Haritaki, Sitopaladi + Godanti Bhasma and treatments like Nasya, Shirodhara and Kriyakalpa like Bidalaka. Outcome: At the end of 18 days visual acuity in left eye improved from 6/18 to 6/9 in left eye and after 2 months of the treatment visual acuity in left eye further improved from 6/9 to 6/6, Optic coherence tomography affirmed markedly resolution of CSCR. A one year follow up confirmed the non - recurrence of the disease. Conclusion: Ayurvedic treatment effectively resolves oedema within a short period of time with marked improvement in visual acuity.