  This study is to test the feasibility of using trans-pars-planar illumination
for ultrawide field pediatric fundus photography. Fundus examination of the
peripheral retina is essential for clinical management of pediatric eye
diseases. However, current pediatric fundus cameras with traditional
trans-pupillary illumination provide a limited field of view (FOV), making it
difficult to access the peripheral retina adequately for a comprehensive
assessment of eye conditions. Here, we report the first demonstration of
trans-pars-planar illumination in ultra-wide field pediatric fundus
photography. For proof-of-concept validation, all off-the-shelf optical
components were selected to construct a lab prototype pediatric camera
(PedCam). By freeing the entire pupil for imaging purpose only, the
trans-pars-planar illumination enables a 200o FOV in a snapshot fundus image,
allowing easy visualization of both the central and peripheral retina up to the
ora serrata. A low-cost, easy-to-use ultra-wide field PedCam provides a unique
opportunity to foster affordable telemedicine in rural and underserved areas.
