Pupillary dilation in primary care optometry Ð Part 1

Pupillary dilation through the use of pharmacological mydriatic agents (mydriasis) is a desirable accompaniment to primary optometric practice to facilitate examination of the ocular fundi using binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus contact and pre-corneal lenses and other associated techniques.1 As the role of optometry in the diagnosis and management of ocular disease increases, it seems likely that there will be an associated increase in the use of mydriatic pharmacological drugs. It is important, therefore, that optometrists are fully acquainted with the issues around the use and action of mydriatic agents, their associated side-effects and recommendations on when to use them. This paper summarises the background information required for practitioners to properly understand what is involved in pupil dilation in order for them to safely use the procedure in their own practice. Recommendations for when to dilate the pupil are also discussed in order to provide guidance for optometrists when making their own clinical decisions. A follow-up article will discuss common misconceptions surrounding pupil dilation and its uses.