The Potential Role of hCG in the Development of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Following In Vitro Fertilization

Background and Aims Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) has been associated with fluctuations in endogenous and exogenous steroid hormones. This report describes a woman who developed unilateral CSCR following in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment shortly after receiving human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). We aimed to highlight the potential role of rapid hormonal changes in triggering CSCR in the context of IVF. Methods A detailed clinical examination, spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT), and OCT angiography were performed. Serum hormone levels were obtained at multiple time points during the IVF cycle. The patient was treated with subthreshold micropulse laser therapy. Results Visual symptoms began 1 day after hCG administration. SD‐OCT confirmed serous macular detachment. Micropulse laser therapy resulted in complete resolution of subretinal fluid, and the best‐corrected visual acuity improved to 20/20 within 4 months. Conclusion This case suggests a potential link between IVF‐related hormonal surges—particularly marked increases in progesterone—and the development of CSCR. The temporal association highlights the need for awareness of ocular side effects in women undergoing fertility treatment.