[Amaurosis fugax]

A follow up study has been performed in thirteen patients suffering from (amaurosis fugax) (A.F.). From the case material analysis and from the review of the current literature it has been possible to infer that the current pathogenetic hypotheses (cerebral and/or retinal microembolism) of the amaurosis fugax and of the transient ischemic cerebral attacks without ocular symptoms are similar, at least in the most of the cases. In all the cases of amaurosis fugax examined, the clinical symptomatology, the frequency of the episodes and the time required for its complete recovery have been described. Some (risk factors) of cerebrovascular disease, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and high plasma levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, have been statistically analyzed using Student's t test and chi-square. As regards other possible risk factors (ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) only a statistical frequency analysis has been performed. The results of the anti-platelet therapy in modifying the frequency of the A.F. episodes have been discussed. It has been lastly considered the results of the follow-up study in regard to the prognosis of the A.F.