In-Clinic Detection of Optic Disc Drusen Using Hand-Held Ultrasound Technology

Differentiation of pseudopapilledema from true papilledema is a common reason for referral to neuro-ophthalmology. Optic disc drusen is a frequent cause of pseudopapilledema, though buried drusen may not be visible on fundus examination. Ancillary testing including ultrasonography can rapidly identify optic disc drusen. While available in academic centers and large private practices, ultrasound machines may be prohibitively expensive for smaller practices. Further, conventional ultrasounds are typically large and unwieldy. In recent years, novel hand-held ultrasound technology has been developed that addresses these issues.