[Ring-like figures in the fundus oculi detected by ophthalmoscopy in transformed light]

Examinations of the fundus oculi in red-free polarized light, carried out in 19 patients (12 with albinism and 7 with the albinotic type of the fundus oculi) have revealed for the first time a peculiar ring-like figure. Since there is no evidence that this figure is formed by retinal folds, the authors suppose that it may result from light wave interference. Light waves on the fundus oculi of albinos may be reflected not only by the internal border membrane, but by Bruch's membrane or sclera as well. These waves, overlapping each other, form a figure identical to Newton's interference rings. The presence of a ring-like figure in the centre of the fundus oculi may be regarded as an additional clinical sign of albinism of the fundus oculi. Together with other signs, this phenomenon may be used as a marker of albinism gene carriership.