[Vision against the light as an aid to indication for cataract operation (author's transl)].

The examination of visual acuity against the light may help the decision, whether or not a senile cataract should be operated on. We examined 84 eyes with different lens opacities, the visual acuity was analysed in relation to the axial, cortical and capsular cataract. We found in all cases a marked reduction of the visual acuity against the light. This has been general ophthalmological experience especially in the capsular cataract. This additional examination, we propose, is easily performed, and was given helpful information for all kinds of cataracts, where the indication for surgery was not clearcut.