Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What type of light does the barrier filter block during retinal imaging?

1. Red light

2. Green light

3. Blue light

4. Yellow light

The correct answer is: Blue light

The barrier filter used during retinal imaging is designed to block certain wavelengths of light to enhance the clarity and contrast of the images captured from the retina. Specifically, the filter primarily blocks blue light, which can cause unwanted reflections and reduce the quality of the image being analyzed. By filtering out blue light, the imaging system can better isolate the signals that are of interest, such as those from the retinal structures or lesions, leading to clearer diagnostic information. Other light wavelengths, such as red, green, and yellow, may still be present and can be beneficial for specific imaging techniques or when visualizing certain features of the retina. This selective blocking helps in minimizing noise and improving the quality of the photographs taken during the imaging procedure, making it easier for specialists to assess retinal health and diagnose conditions.