[Astigmatism].

Astigmatism is the most frequent refractive error worldwide followed by hyperopia and myopia. Internal astigmatism has to be differentiated from external astigmatism. Furthermore, external astigmatism can be divided into "with the rule", "against the rule" and "oblique".

[Transient myopia].

Although transient myopia is an extremely rare symptom, systemic diseases which can also lead to a life-threatening condition should also be considered in cases of sudden deterioration of vision. Therefore, the initial diagnosis in an ophthalmological clinic or practice plays a decisive role.

[Optic nerve involvement in syphilis in 4 patients].

Background: Due to increasing numbers of cases syphilis again becomes more important in ophthalmology. Syphilitic ocular manifestations do not show any typical characteristics and therefore are often not diagnosed although a correct and early diagnosis with adequate therapy is very important for the visual outcome.

Patients: We report on four patients with luetic ocular fundus manifestations, who were referred to our clinic with unspecific ocular complaints.

[Functional reduction of vision symptomatic of a conversion reaction in paediatric population].

Background: First case reports of psychogenic visual disorders date back into the 19th century. Nowadays we speak of functional visual disorders of somatoform origin, a conversion reaction in which neurotic conflicts are solved on somatic level. This is the initial kind of reduction of agitation specially in children.

[Endoscopic treatment of lacrimal duct stenoses using a KTP laser--report of initial experiences].

Background: Since four years, endoscopes with which the mucosa and disorders of the lacrimal drainage system can be examined directly, are available. The wish to treat lacrimal disorders with endoscopes and laser have remained.

Patients And Methods: Between January 1996 and February 1997.

[Ritleng-lacrimal intubation system for injured canaliculi].

Background: Intubation of the lacrimal pathway is used to restore the canaliculi. This procedure is often complicated by the so called accordion-phenomenon.

Patients And Methods: During the last 4 years we used a new system for lacrimal intubation: the Silicon intubationset designed by Ritleng.

[Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy: long-term results after hemodilution therapy].

Background: In patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) we investigated the long-term effect of hemodilution on functional results, recurrence rate in the affected and involvement of the second eye.

Patients And Methods: In a retrospective study we reviewed 24 patients ranging in age from 62 to 92 years (mean 77 years) with AION. The duration of follow-up was between 8-51 months (mean 24.

[Interactive, multimedia learning system for the study of primary open angle glaucoma--system description from the viewpoint of the computer scientist].

For use on an Apple Macintosh PC, a software packet was developed with the aid of which medical students can learn all about primary open-angle glaucoma; at the same time, it is also highly suitable for supplementing lectures. The subject is subdivided into the three sections anatomy, pathology and clinical picture. All the possibilities of computer technology, for example controllable animation, video sequences and special graphic effects are utilized.

[Initial description of a retinal ganglioglioma].

Gangliogliomas are very rare neuronal tumors, predominantly localized in the thalamus, third ventricle, and temporal lobe. They usually occur in younger patients, grow slowly, and their glial components may develop to malignancy. A case is reported in which a tumor was detected on the upper rim of the optic disk.

[Nasal intubation with silastic tubes in dacryocystorhinostomy and experiences with the Piza approximator].

The technique of intubation of the lacrimal pathways can be facilitated by using a Piza approximator for connection of the ring intubation, or two 15 mm long rods of a Bowman probe connected to silicone tubes for nasal intubation, with a double tantalum clip for closure of the loop in dacryocystorhinostomy.

[Cytology of the normal ciliary ganglion].

In view of the increasing importance of tissue cytology in the diagnosis of different diseases the authors studied 12 ciliary ganglions of patients without eye disease who had died at ages ranging from seven months to 76 years. After preparation of the ganglions from the retrobulbar tissue, two different methods were used, i.e.

[A case of strabismus concomitans convergens alternans acutus].

In the present paper the authors report on a case of acute concomitant squint in a 14-year-old girl. A study of the patient's history revealed only psychosomatic factors as possible causes.

[Eye injuries in childhood].

A retrospective study was performed of eye injuries sustained by children up to 15 years old who had to be hospitalized for treatment. The period under review covered five years. The authors reviewed 241 cases with regard to cause of injury, type of injury, treatment, duration of hospitalization and consequences, if any.