What diagnostic method is used to diagnose retinal detachment when the ocular media are clear?

• A. Ophthalmoscopy
• B. Ultrasound
• C. CT
• D. MRI

Answer: (A)

Ophthalmoscopy is used to diagnose retinal detachment when the ocular media are clear. By directly looking at the retina with an ophthalmoscope (direct or indirect), you can see the detached retinal flap as an elevated, grayish membrane separated from the underlying choroid. This allows precise assessment of the detachment’s extent, its margins, and any associated retinal tears, which is crucial for urgent management and planning treatment such as laser therapy or surgical repair. Ultrasound is reserved for situations where the retina cannot be seen due to media haze (like cataract or vitreous hemorrhage) and can confirm detachment in those cases. CT or MRI are not first-line tools for diagnosing retinal detachment; they are not as sensitive for this purpose and are generally not used for routine assessment of the detached retina.