PURPOSE: Minoxidil is one of the drugs approved for the treatment of 
androgenetic alopecia. This article presents a case of central serous 
chorioretinopathy after application of topical minoxidil solution.
METHODS: We examined a 37-year-old man who complained of a positive relative 
scotoma, metamorphopsia and impaired dark adaptation involving the right eye. 
The patient reported an 8 month history of daily topical use but denied previous 
treatment with other drugs. Dilated fundus examination of right eye revealed 
central swelling located over the macula. Optical coherence tomography showed 
the presence of subretinal fluid. Fluorescein angiography disclosed one focal 
hyperfluorescent spot in the foveal area with minimal pigmentary changes 
limitated to that area. The patient was diagnosed with central serous 
chorioretinopathy (CSC) potentially related to an 8 month topical minoxidil 
solution administration. One month after the drug was discontinued, normal 
findings were found upon reexamination. The patient reported no previous episode 
of CSC.
CONCLUSION: Major systemic side effects from topical solution of minoxidil are 
rare. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a central serous 
chorioretinopathy associated with long-term use of this drug.