Schirmer's test
Alternate Names : Tear test, Tearing test, Dry eye test
Risks
There are no risks with this test.
Special Considerations
Do not rub the eyes for at least 30 minutes after the test. Contact lenses should be left out for at least 2 hours after the test. Even though Schirmer's test has been available for more than 100 years, several studies show that it does not properly identify a large group of patients with dry eyes. Newer and better tests are being developed. One test measures a molecule called lactoferrin. Patients with low tear production and dry eyes have low levels of this molecule.
Another test involves fluorescein eye drops, which contain a dye that is placed in the eye. Tears should flush the dye into the nose within 2 minutes. It will take longer in people with dry eyes.
|
Previous
