[Scanning electron microscopy of cystoid degeneration in the peripheral retina (author's transl)]

Scanning electron microscopy of peripheral cystoid degenerations of the retina as well as of reticular or inner cystoid degenerations shows tunnel-shaped and vault-like cavities which are supported by columns. In marked cases of PCD, fibers of a collagenous nature surround and connect the columns. Inside the columns there are cable-like strands, which are probably stretched neuronal processes. The surface covering of the columns is formed as a porous layer. The columns of the reticular cystoid degeneration are thinner and located in processes of the outer columns. Globular structures persent in both systems of are interpreted as deformed erythrocytes.