Fundus (eye)

Fundus (eye)

The fundus of the eye is the interior surface of the eye, opposite the lens, and includes the retina, optic disc, macula, fovea, and posterior pole. The term is often used in the context of ophthalmology and optometry to refer to the back of the eye, which can be examined using various techniques such as ophthalmoscopy or fundus photography.

Anatomy

The fundus is composed of several key structures:

• Retina: The light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye. It converts light images into electrical signals, which are sent to the brain via the optic nerve.
• Optic disc: The point of exit for ganglion cell axons leaving the eye. Because there are no rods or cones overlying the optic disc, it corresponds to a small blind spot in each eye.
• Macula: An oval-shaped pigmented area near the center of the retina, responsible for high-acuity vision.
• Fovea: A small depression in the retina where visual acuity is highest. The fovea is located in the center of the macula.
• Posterior pole: The back part of the eye, including the retina, macula, and optic disc.

Examination

The fundus can be examined using several methods:

• Ophthalmoscopy: A test that allows a health professional to see inside the fundus of the eye and other structures using an ophthalmoscope.
• Fundus photography: A process of photographing the interior surface of the eye, including the retina, optic disc, macula, and posterior pole.
• Fluorescein angiography: A medical procedure in which a fluorescent dye is injected into the bloodstream, and then a series of photographs are taken to examine blood flow in the retina and choroid.

Clinical Significance

Examination of the fundus is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions, including:

• Diabetic retinopathy: A diabetes complication that affects the eyes.
• Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve.
• Macular degeneration: A medical condition that may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field.
• Retinal detachment: An emergency situation in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) at the back of the eye pulls away from its normal position.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Retina
• Optic disc
• Macula
• Fovea
• Posterior pole