["Filtered normality": psychological causes and sequelae of specific retinal diseases]

Until now there is a lack of investigation in psychological aspects of retinopathy in patients of the middle ages. The few studies have been found, focused on an old-fashioned psychopathology. Medical treatment, f.e. laser therapy is only partially available, constant visual loss to blindness is possible. Life events, coping strategies, social support, and symptomatic distress of patients with presumed ocular histoplasmosis (group 1) and patients with retinopathy centralis serosa (group 2) were compared with another and with a comparison group. Group 1 scored higher on the Schedule of Recent Experiences (Holmes and Rahe 1967) and showed better social support. Group 2 scored higher on the Brief Symptom Inventory (Derogatis and Melisaratos 1983) and showed low social support. Additionally gender differences were discussed.