Retinal Examination In Diabetes

What is it?

Fundoscopy is the inspection of the fundus, or back portion of the eye, which includes the retina, optic disc and blood vessels. DFE is an excellent means of detecting and assessing the signs of diseases of both the eye. It is a very useful, painless diagnostic tool that only takes an average of five minutes to perform.

Why is it required?

According researchers, more than 70 percent of people with diabetes develop some form of eye disease related to diabetes. Diabetic eye disease can include cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal hemorrhages and retinal detachment. If the condition is not diagnosed and treated early, blindness often results.

How can the test be of help?

Annual eye examinations including a dilated fundus evaluation are a critical component of diabetic care. Without dilation of the pupil, early stages of diabetic retinopathy may be missed. Through a dilated fundus evaluation, the changes that occur in retinopathy can be seen and monitored sooner. With early detection, these complications are more effectively managed. Studies show that 90 percent of blindness due to diabetes can be prevented with early detection and intervention.This test can help in detecting disease like Cataracts, Cloudy Vitreous, Retinal Tears and Detachment, Optic Nerve Disease and Glaucoma