Retinopathy is diagnosed by examining the retina via the expanded pupil using an ophthalmoscope or biomicroscope or looking at photographs taken with a fundus camera.
The eye specialist’s examination includes checking the patient’s vision using optimal lens correction. The intraocular pressure is measured before expanding the pupils. A biomicroscope is used to examine the structures at the front of the eye, the lens and the structures at the back surface of the eye, such as the end of the ocular nerve or papilla and the retina.
At screening scans, it is recommended to take at least two black-and-white images of the back surfaces of the eyes, i.e. papilla- and macula-centric images. If necessary, it is possible to take more images in order to document any changes at the edges of the retina. Before the photography, eye drops are used to expand the pupils to improve visibility.
Digital fundus cameras can also take other types of images from the back surface of the eye (fundus) for other purposes. For instance, colour images show choroidal nevi, which are like moles in the back part of the eye.
Additional examinations include optical coherence tomography (OCT) and contrast radiography.