The importance of fundus examination of the child

Funduscopic examination in children is an essential medical procedure in pediatric ophthalmology, which assesses the overall health of ocular structures, particularly the retina and optic nerve.

This examination is particularly crucial in children due to the importance of early screening of ocular pathologies that can compromise their visual acuity or lead to long-term vision problems.

Keep reading to know more about it!

Why examine the fundus of the child?

Funduscopic examination of the child allows Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger to inspect key areas such as the retina, macula, and optic nerve.

 

Using techniques such as fluorescein angiography, our COP9 ophthalmologist can detect structural or functional abnormalities.


This allows her to detect retinal detachments or signs of diabetic retinopathy, particularly in children with chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Funduscopic examination of the child also allows for:

 

  • early detection of retinal abnormalities;

  • observation of the optic nerve and blood vessels;

  • identification of rare or hereditary diseases such as retinoblastoma or congenital toxoplasmosis.

 

Disorders such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism can also be identified during the examination.

 

Another key aspect is the screening for congenital eye diseases such as keratoconus or strabismus.

 

When scheduling this exam, our ophthalmology team can identify these conditions early, allowing for early surgical interventions to minimize the impact on the child’s visual development.

 

How is the fundus examination of the child performed ?

The fundus examination of the child involves several key steps.

It begins with pupil dilation using specific drops, allowing the specialist to observe the inside of the eye.

At our COP9 ophthalmology center, our pediatric ophthalmologist performs a detailed analysis of ocular structures, searches for potential abnormalities, and makes an accurate diagnosis.

This specialized pediatric consultation may be preceded or supplemented by an assessment with one of our orthoptists, particularly to evaluate ocular coordination. 

It is common for children to be somewhat bothered by light or agitated during the exam, which is why the team adapts its approach to the young patient’s age and behavior.

 

By performing a refraction, our pediatric ophthalmologist can prescribe appropriate glasses or contact lenses to improve children’s visual acuity and promote optimal visual development.

Nos orthoptistes COP9; Margot et Justine

When is a fundus examination recommended for a child ?

This ophthalmic examination is essential when an unexplained visual pathology is suspected, particularly when the child has visual disorders with no apparent cause.

Fundus examination of the child allows for direct visualization of the internal structures of the eye and helps determine what additional tests to consider.

It is also recommended for children with strabismus or amblyopia to assess the health of the retina and optic nerve. 

This examination is an integral part of patient care in pediatric ophthalmology from a very young age, particularly in a specialized approach.

The examination is often performed as part of follow-up for neurological or metabolic diseases, in conjunction with neuro-ophthalmology, to detect intracranial signs or optic nerve damage.

 

It is therefore essential to consult an ophthalmologist as soon as unusual signs are detected, in order to make an early diagnosis and ensure appropriate treatment for each situation.

Cabinet COP9
Cabinet d'examen COP9

Ophthalmic emergencies and prevention

Ocular emergencies, such as retinal vessel occlusions or chronic glaucoma, can also be revealed during a fundus examination.

This is especially relevant for children with a family history of glaucoma or other diseases. 

Fundus examinations in children can provide valuable information for appropriate medical and surgical care in ophthalmology departments.

At our COP9 eye center, our medical team specializing in pediatrics provides comprehensive follow-up.

 

Pediatric ophthalmology outpatient clinics play a vital role in the rehabilitation and monitoring of children suffering from vision problems.

 

Regular examinations allow us to monitor the progress of eye health, adjust treatments if necessary, and provide instructions on the use of implants, lenses, or eye drops to treat conditions such as amblyopia or strabismus.

 

Don’t wait for complications: consulting an ophthalmologist at the first signs remains essential!

COP9 cabinet multidisciplinaire
Notre centre ophtalmologique COP9 à Paris

In conclusion

To summarize, fundus examinations of the child are an essential tool not only for the early diagnosis of various eye conditions, but also for prescribing appropriate treatments, whether medical or surgical.

 

These examinations not only help preserve the child’s visual acuity but also significantly contribute to their cognitive and social development, allowing them to fully experience childhood without the constraints of impaired vision.

 

The role of practitioners and orthoptists is crucial in this process, ensuring that the child receives the ophthalmological attention they need throughout their development.

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