Digital camera system to perform infrared photography of iris transillumination

The authors modified a standard digital camera by replacing an internal infrared-blocking filter that allowed photography of iris transillumination defects. Visible and infrared light was produced with a halogen fiberoptic light source that was placed against the inferior eyelid and directed perpendicular to the globe. To obtain images, the camera was mounted to a tabletop tripod placed 3 to 5 in from a chin/headrest apparatus. Images were downloaded onto a personal computer via software and accessories provided by the camera manufacturer. This technique, which is convenient and produces high quality, color images, can highlight details of the normal and pathologic iris. It may have significant utility in clinical research as well as routine clinical care.