Non-mydriatic single-field fundus photography for the screening of retinal diseases in an executive health clinic.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To determine the accuracy and sensitivity of a single-field non-mydriatic digital fundus image interpreted by an ophthalmologist and performed within a primary care setting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fundus photography using a digital non-mydriatic camera was performed on both eyes of 1,175 consecutive patients as part of an executive health program. All fundus images included a 45° field of the posterior pole capturing the optic nerve and macular area. Diagnostic findings were recorded and appropriate recommendations for follow-up were made. Patients were then contacted to see whether appropriate follow-up was successfully completed and chart reviews were performed to determine biomicroscopic findings.

RESULTS

Photographs were adequate in both eyes in 1,117 patients (95.1%). Examination findings were normal in both eyes in 951 (85.1%) patients. Abnormal findings were noted in either eye in 166 (14.9%) patients. The most common abnormal findings were macular degeneration (57/166, 34.3%), optic nerve cupping (45/166, 27.1%), hypertensive retinopathy (15/166, 9.0%), and choroidal nevi (10/166, 6.0%). In all patients with abnormal findings, routine follow-up ophthalmologic examination with an eye care specialist was indicated and none of the patients required urgent attention. Sensitivity was found to be 87% and stratification was performed based on the initial diagnosis. False-positive results were from confounding diagnoses rather than true false-positives.

CONCLUSION

Single-field non-mydriatic fundus photography is accurate and sensitive for screening retinal disease in a primary care setting.