The natural history of senile retinoschisis.

The natural history of senile retinoschisis was studied in 193 eyes of 108 non-referred patients while refraining from the use of any prophylactic intervention, over follow-up periods ranging from 2 to 11 years. No case of clinical symptomatic retinal detachment occurred. 2 cases of small localized subclinical retinal detachment occurred, but these did not progress. 9 eyes showed new retinal holes. 11 showed increase in extent, and 7 showed spontaneous regression of lesions. An estimated risk of clinical detachment is calculated and four indications for treatment are given.