Retinal Vascular Patterns

Abstract

In the first paper of this series we presented observations on normal retinal vascular patterns prepared by a new technique. 1 The retinal vessels and certain adherent structures were separated from the rest of the retina by trypsin digestion and gentle agitation. The isolated network of intercommunicating vessels was then available for study with a variety of stains, unobscured by surrounding tissue which has prevented visualization of the minute vessels and their cells heretofore. In the second paper of this series la we reported on the relation of the capillary plexuses to each other as determined by observing the human retinal vascular pattern in 3 dimensions. The present paper will concern the distinctive vascular patterns found in different age groups and in association with hypertension, absolute glaucoma, and injury to the retina. Subsequent papers of this series will probably be concerned with vascular changes resulting from diabetes and experimental lesions.