Summicron DR fungus

I am not sure exactly how to recognise a fungus problem, but my summicron dr has started to produce some very soft pics, and there seem to be several circular / annular abnomalities on one of the inside surfaces. Could this be fungus, or would fungus show a more random pattern? I haven't previously used it for at least 12 months.

The lens has many scratches on the glass, so I wonder if it is worth cleaning.

Ideas much apprec iated.

[Brian Sweeney]

Fungus usually has "Veins" associated with it. Internal "fog" will cover a wide area and produce soft images, it did so on my Summarit. An $80 CLA at Essex camera repair in New Jersey did wonders for it. Light cleaning marks on the front surface are unlikely to be nocticeable. As the DR Summicron goes for $300, a CLA is worth it.

[SolaresLarrave]

Sounds like haze or fog, and the lens is worth sending out to repair. Go by Brian's advice and send it to Essex! Good luck!

[pshinkaw]

Some fungus looks like a spider web or gray cotton. If not dealt with, it will grow and possibly damage the lens coating.

-Paul

[ZeissFan]

Circular patterns? Are they iridescent? Or is it hazy?

Iridescent is a sign of lens separation. You might want to try using a lens hood and see if that helps.