How to use…the direct ophthalmoscope

Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed. 2018 Apr;103(2):102-109. doi: 10.1136/archdischild-2016-312378. Epub 2017 Sep 21.

Abstract

Ophthalmoscopy and red reflex examination are core medical skills required to identify sight-threatening and life-threatening disease. We discuss the predictive utility and limitations of findings with an ophthalmoscope and tips as to how to optimise these. We outline important considerations in three clinical scenarios: an abnormal red reflex, an abnormal optic disc and retinal haemorrhages in the context of child protection concerns.

Keywords: general paediatrics; neonatology; neurology; neurosurgery; ophthalmology.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Eye Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Eye Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / instrumentation*
  • Mass Screening / methods*
  • Ophthalmoscopes*
  • Ophthalmoscopy / methods*
  • Pediatrics*