Cardiovascular diseases lead to systemic vascular regression, which, among other consequences, may result in an impairment of retinal perfusion. In view of the high level of comorbidity observed in patients with circulatory problems affecting the retina, the early recognition of mild forms of vascular retinopathy is of considerable importance. A major prerequisite for an improvement in outcome is the recognition of the fact that most circulatory disorders of the retina are due to systemic vascular disease, and the eye is an important prognostic indicator of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. As a result, effective communication between family physician/internist and ophthalmologist is basic to the successful treatment of these diseases of the eye.