What is the Schirmer test?

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Schirmer test is a well -established clinical procedure that helps diagnose chronic dry eye disorders such as Sjogren's syndrome. The test includes inserting a strip of filter paper between the eyeball and the lower lid for a few minutes to collect natural tears. Based on the amount of absorbed moisture, the physician may determine the severity of the drought. It usually takes about ten minutes to complete the procedure and can be performed in the Optometrist office, an ophthalmology center, hospital or a special laboratory.

The patient scheduled to test Schirmer is usually instructed to avoid using eye drops and carrying contact lenses on the test day to make sure that the findings will be accurate. During the procedure, a small, thin strip of sterile filter paper is inserted into the lower lid. The patient is then instructed to gently keep his eyes closed for at least five minutes. If the test causes discomfort or IR, anesthetic eye drops can be used. The paper is removed after the assignedTime so that the eye physician can evaluate how much moisture has been taken.

Assessment of the results of the Schirmer test is not accurate science, but most doctors agree that if the humid spot is less than about 0.4 inches (about 1 centimeter) on average, there is a reason to conclude that there may be a dry eye condition. If the place is larger, tears secretion are considered normal and other causes of patient symptoms should be considered. Not all clinics and optometists agree on the threshold between normal and abnormal values, so a person can be declared healthy, although the Schirca test shows less than the average spread of moisture. In addition, the ranges of values ​​can be adjusted according to the patient's age. For example, people over the age of 60 generally have less tears production than younger people for no reason.

SCHIRMER TEST is not enough to perform a clinical diagnosis. Symptoms of dry eye can be caused by a number of different factors and testIt simply shows whether further exploration is required. Before performing the test, the doctor usually asks about the use of drugs, any known allergies, a familial history of dry eye and the time the patient experiences symptoms. If the Schirmer test indicates the possibility of Sjogren's syndrome, it may be necessary to collect a tissue sample from the tear canal and analyze to confirm the diagnosis.