Schirmer's test
Schirmer's Test
Schirmer's Test (pronounced: SHUR-mers test) is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the production of tears. The test is named after the German ophthalmologist, Otto Schirmer, who first described it in 1903.
Etymology
The term "Schirmer's Test" is derived from the name of its inventor, Otto Schirmer. The word "test" comes from the Old French test, meaning "small vessel".
Procedure
In Schirmer's Test, a small strip of filter paper is bent and inserted into the lower eyelid (the conjunctival sac). The patient is asked to close their eyes for five minutes. The length of the paper that becomes wet from tear production is then measured. A measurement of less than 10 millimeters of moisture on the filter paper after five minutes is considered abnormal.
Related Terms
- Dry Eye Syndrome: A condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca: A type of dry eye syndrome caused by a decrease in the quality or quantity of tears.
- Tear Break Up Time Test: Another test used to diagnose dry eye syndrome. It measures the time it takes for dry spots to appear on the cornea after a blink.
See Also
- Tear Film: The thin layer of fluid that covers the outer surface of the eye.
- Lacrimal Gland: The gland that produces tears.
- Conjunctiva: The mucous membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Schirmer's test
- Wikipedia's article - Schirmer's test
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