The slit-lamp examination looks at structures that are at the front of the eye. A slit-lamp, which is a specialized magnifying microscope, is used to examine the structures of the eye (including the cornea, iris, vitreous, and retina. Diseases of the eye can be difficult to diagnose during a general physical examination. A doctor who specializes in treating eye problems, called an ophthalmologist, is better able to examine and diagnose these conditions because the tools they have are specific to