fundusfoto

Fundusfoto, or fundus photography, is the imaging of the eye’s fundus—the retina, optic disc, macula, and surrounding vessels. It produces color images used to document ocular status, aid diagnosis, and monitor disease over time.

A fundus camera, with adjustable illumination, captures images through a dilated or, in nonmydriatic setups, undilated pupil. Nonmydriatic systems offer quick screening but may have limited field and lower image quality; wider field views are possible with specialized cameras or montages. Digital sensors enable post-processing, storage, and telemedicine, and smartphone adapters have expanded access in some settings.

Applications include screening and monitoring diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal vascular occlusions, and other retinal disorders. Fundus photographs support evaluation of systemic diseases with ocular manifestations and provide a baseline for treatment response.

Interpretation focuses on signs such as microaneurysms, hemorrhages, exudates, drusen, and optic disc changes. Serial images allow assessment of progression or response to therapy; they complement, but do not replace, dilated ophthalmoscopy and other imaging modalities when peripheral retina or detailed assessment is required.

Safety is high; potential risks include dilution effects (light sensitivity) and rare adverse reactions to pharmacologic mydriasis if used. The technique has evolved from early optical imaging to modern high-resolution digital photography and wide-field systems, enhancing documentation and tele-ophthalmology.