Results of argon laser treatment of pigment epithelial detachments and of subretinal neovascular membranes in Junius-Kuhnt's senile disciform macular degeneration have been compared in a prospective, randomized investigation with the natural course of these affections. Of several hundred cases 26 eyes met our criteria for treatment. In control periods ranging from 1 to 3 years, six eyes with pigment epithelial detachments received laser treatment and seven served as controls; seven eyes with subretinal neovascular membranes received laser treatment and six served as controls. The results indicate that impairment of vision progresses more rapidly after argon laser treatment than when no such treatment is given.

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