Comparison of non-stereo polaroids and slides in detection of diabetic retinopathy.

Fundus photography plays an important role in detection and assessment of diabetic retinopathy. This study compared the detectability of diabetic retinopathy lesions on Polaroid prints and Ektachrome slides obtained with a non-mydriatic camera. The number of lesions detected with Ektachrome slides was higher compared to Polaroids. The method of viewing the Ektachrome slides was also shown to be important. Slides when projected onto a white screen revealed a higher number of lesions compared to the same slide viewed through a macroscope. If a non-mydriatic camera is used to screen diabetic retinopathy, judgement from a projected Ectachrome slide is recommended.