Optic disc photography involves taking detailed images of the optic nerve head to document its appearance over time. It is a traditional but still valuable tool in glaucoma and optic nerve assessment.
Method
Colour or monochrome photographs are captured using a fundus camera, often with stereo pairs to appreciate disc cupping and rim contour. Consistent framing, focus, and exposure are important for comparisons.
- Provides a permanent visual record of disc size, shape, and vessels
- Stereo viewing enhances depth perception of cup and rim
- Images can be digitised for storage and side-by-side review
- Can be combined with red-free photography to highlight nerve fibre defects
Clinical Use
Serial disc photographs allow clinicians to detect progressive cupping, notching, or haemorrhages that may indicate worsening glaucoma. They also help document other optic nerve disorders.
- Useful when advanced imaging is unavailable or as an adjunct
- Disc haemorrhages captured on photos are important risk markers
- Comparisons over many years can be particularly revealing
- Interpretation should account for image magnification and viewing conditions
