Recently a friend in his 70's with no history of illness or drug use has experienced geometric distortions in his visual field.

These are not preceeded by headaches or any other physical symptoms.

Examples are: Looking at his sofa which is tan and red flowers, he sees a plaid field of letters and numbers in perfect focus. The black paved street becomes red bricks. His blue floral shower curtain becomes large checks.

Can nyone identify this disorder or tell him what type of doctor to start with?

I'd start with a neurologist http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/round.gif

Judie:

A neurologist is good. Also look up Charles Bonnet Syndrome on the net.

I see intricate patterns like flowers and vines, as well as checkerboards, but I have a retinal dystrophy. Does your friend have age-related macular degeneration?

Moe

yes that definately sounds like charles bonnet syndrome to me. this site has info - www.rnib.org.uk/info/cbsfin.htm (http://www.rnib.org.uk/info/cbsfin.htm)