Proficiency at retinal examination takes a long time to acquire. The authors investigated auto-ophthalmoscopy — the examination of one's own retina — as a way of helping the student or practitioner. They report the first pilot study in the 145-year history of the method. Auto-ophthalmoscopy is best taught by demonstration and is best learnt under supervision. It takes practice, which is in itself useful in learning how to use a direct ophthalmoscope. Of 20 participants in the pilot study, 11 saw their retinae. One of the authors, who has type 2 diabetes, has seen and sketched his own micro-aneurysms.
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