Optimap or is there something better

[petbernard]

I like the Optimap scanner of the retina.  The optometrist found a nevus on the retina.  Through this  column I was advised to have it checked out by an opthamalogist or an eye doctor.  So I called for an appointment but first I asked if they would have to dialate my pupils and they said "yes."  I did not go to the eye doctor because of the dialation issue.  Tell me what other scanning machines are used.  Why does it seem that the eye doctors don't avail themselves of this type of equipment?  Why do you find this machine more often at the optometrist?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Optomap is fine.  I have a Canon digital fundus camera and Zeiss OCT.  They get the job done very well.  Optomap is fine - while Zeiss OCT is probably the gold standard for optical macular scanning in my opinion and has the biggest market share by far.  Optmap or OCT usually not that helpful regarding a nevus.  Most importnat there is a digital picture and sometimes a B-scan to measure thickness.  The  optomap also takes a digital photo which is not even close to the resolution of my Canon.  I'm not sure where you are going with  your question. If your choroidal nevus is an issue (larger size with some thickness to it) then see an ophthalmologist that is a retinal specialist so that you will have a qualified opinion.  In the end what is most important is the expertice, experience and knowledge of the eye physician looking at the nevus, and nice images for future comparison.

MJK MD

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

If the nevus is significant, dilation of eyes is needed for examination and photos. It a large, suspicious nevus, then intravenous dye and angiogram and b-scan may be needed.

MJK MD

[petbernard]

Your information was helpful because now I will be able to ask if the doctor offers a B-scan and or the Zeiss OCT but I am still interested in avoiding injections and eyedrops for dialation of the pupils. Do these two diagnostic tools require the dilation or an injection of dye?  Is the eye drop method less advanced than these other diagnostic tools?  I hope you have a better idea about my concerns.