The Ophthalmoscope
Transparency of the cornea, lens and vitreous humor
permits the physician to directly view arteries, veins, optic
nerve and the retina.
Direct observation of the structures of the fundus through an
ophthalmoscope may show disease of the eye itself or may
reveal abnormalities indicative of disease elsewhere in the
body. Among the most important of these are vascular
changes due to diabetes or hypertension and swelling of the
optic nerve head due to papilledema or optic neuritis. In this
sense, the eye serves as a window through which many
valuable clinical evaluations may be made.
When a preliminary diagnosis of an imminently dangerous
eye condition, such as acute glaucoma or retinal
detachment, is made by the examiner, prompt referral to an
ophthalmologist may prevent irreversible damage. Or, when
distressing but less urgent conditions, such as visual
impairment due to cataract or vitreous floater are
recognized, the patient can be reassured and referred.
A. Front surface mirror
B. Crossed linear
polarizing/red-free
filter switch
C. Aperture selection
disc
D. On/Off rheostat
control
E. Rubber brow rest
F. Lens selection disc
G. Illuminated lens
indicator
Acknowledgment
We wish to express our sincere appreciation to the Scheie Eye Institute and
Dr. Steven Koenig, Dr. Ralph Eagle, Dr. Ken Spitzer and John Griffin for their
contribution to this booklet.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
• Ophth Broch ForeignWorking.2 4/26/99 1:02 PM Page 2
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