Ophthalmoscopy

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Test Overview

Ophthalmoscopy is a test that allows a health professional to see inside the back of the eye (called the fundus) and other structures using a magnifying instrument (ophthalmoscope) and a light source. It is done as part of an eye examination and may be done as part of a routine physical examination.

The fundus contains a lining of nerve cells (the retina), which detects images seen by the clear, outer covering of the eye (cornea). The fundus also contains blood vessels and the optic nerve. See a picture of the structures of the eye .

There are two types of ophthalmoscopy.

• Direct ophthalmoscopy. Your health professional uses an instrument about the size of a small flashlight with several lenses that can magnify up to about 15 times. This type of ophthalmoscopy is most commonly done during a routine physical examination.
• Indirect ophthalmoscopy. Your health professional wears a light attached to a headband and uses a small handheld lens. Indirect ophthalmoscopy provides a wider view of the inside of the eye and allows a better view of the fundus even if the lens is clouded by cataracts.

Last updated:	July 06, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer