Funduscopy (Ophthalmoscopy): Procedure, Findings, and Clinical Uses

Funduscopy (ophthalmoscopy) examines the ocular fundus—retina, optic disc, macula, and retinal vasculature—using an ophthalmoscope after pupil dilation.

Procedure

1. Dilate pupils with mydriatic drops (e.g., tropicamide).
2. Illuminate with ophthalmoscope light.
3. Visualize fundus structures systematically.

Key Findings

• Retina: Color, clarity, hemorrhages, exudates, tears, detachments.
• Optic disc: Cupping (glaucoma), edema (papilledema), pallor (atrophy).
• Macula: Drusen, edema, degeneration (AMD).
• Vessels: Narrowing (hypertension), microaneurysms (diabetes), occlusions.

Indications

Diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease, and optic neuropathies. Also used for screening in high-risk populations.