Retinal mapping, also known as fundus examination or fundus examination, is an examination in which the ophthalmologist is able to observe the nerves, blood vessels and eye tissue responsible for capturing the images, being able to detect changes and allow the indication of treatment.. Thus, the mapping is indicated to identify changes caused by:
- Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, tumor, inflammation, lack of blood flow or drug intoxication, for example; Systemic diseases that cause eye damage, by altering the nerves and vessels of the eyes, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, rheumatic diseases, neurological diseases or blood disorders;
In addition, retinal mapping can also be indicated in premature babies, aged 32 weeks or less, or weighing 1, 500 g or less, as in these cases there may be retinopathy of prematurity, a disease that causes changes in the vessels baby's blood. The lack of proper treatment can lead to irreversible damage to the child's eye development and, in some cases, blindness. Understand what can be done in these cases in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity.
How is done
Retinal mapping is a simple test, done during consultation with an ophthalmologist, that does not cause injury or cause pain. For its realization, a device called ophthalmoscope is used, which is positioned at a distance of about 15 cm and projects a beam of light at the back of the eye, allowing the doctor to observe the image of the region.
With this observation, the ophthalmologist will be able to identify possible changes and, if necessary, order more tests, such as tomography, or even indicate treatments, such as drugs to treat inflammation or surgery to reposition the retinal detachment, for example.
In addition, to perform the exam, the doctor may indicate dilation of the pupil, made with eyedrops also applied in the consultation, just before the exam, so it is recommended to have a companion to assist in returning home. It is also advisable not to use rigid contact lenses on the day of the exam, as it may alter the result.
See also other eye exams can be done to avoid vision complications.
Exam Price
Retinal mapping is done free of charge by SUS, when indicated, however, it can also be done in private clinics, for a price that can vary between 100 to 250 reais, which is very variable according to the location and clinic where the exam is done.
When is indicated
The fundus examination should be done in the following cases:
- Whenever the vision becomes impaired, and the reason is not the lack of adequate glasses; People over 50 years, since from this age it is more common for diseases of the retina; People with diseases that can cause lesions in the retina, such as hypertensive, diabetic or patients with rheumatological diseases; People with myopia, as it is a situation in which the retina becomes more fragile and favors the appearance of lesions that, when left untreated, can lead to detachment of the retina; uses medications considered toxic to the retina, such as Chloroquine, Chlorpromazine, Tamoxifen or Isotretinoin, for example; In the preoperative period of eye surgeries, such as refractive or cataract surgeries; Family or personal history of retinal detachment; After trauma or injury Whenever, during the general consultation, a complaint is made related to internal changes in the eye; In babies born 3 years old or less 2 weeks, weighing 1500 g or less, since there may be retinopathy of prematurity.
Thus, with the retinal mapping, it is possible to detect early the main changes in the retina or eye diseases in general, so that the treatment is done quickly, avoiding complications, such as loss of vision.
