The Eyes Have It

Optic Fundus Signs

In this section, you will study normal and abnormal ophthalmoscopic signs of the retina and optic nerve.

The photographs will show you details you are not likely to appreciate in vivo, especially through undilated pupils.

Phenylephrine

Dilating the Pupils
Are you refraining from dilating the pupils because...

  • it takes too much time?
  • the eyedrops sting?
  • you are afraid of precipitating angle closure glaucoma?

If you use phenylephrine 2.5%, have no fear. The pupils will dilate adequately in 10 minutes, the eyedrops won't hurt, and there will be no risk of glaucoma.

If you do not dilate the pupils, you had better learn very good technique with the ophthalmoscope in order to get a decent view. See how it's done.

Now begin your guided tour of the optic fundus

The Eyes Have It
An interactive teaching and assessment program on vision care