Slit lamp testing

Slit lamp testing, also known as biomicroscopy, is a diagnostic tool used to examine the eye in detail. It involves shining a thin, intense beam of light (slit lamp) onto the eye to illuminate specific structures, allowing for a magnified view of the:

• Cornea (front surface)
• Iris (colored part)
• Lens (clear structure behind the iris)
• Retina (innermost layer)
• Optic nerve (carries visual information to the brain)

The slit lamp test is used to:

• Diagnose eye conditions, such as cataracts, conjunctivitis, and corneal ulcers
• Detect eye injuries or foreign objects in the eye
• Monitor eye diseases, like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy
• Perform contact lens fittings
• Conduct pre-operative exams for eye surgery

The test is usually performed by an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist) and takes only a few minutes to complete.

Note: While slit lamp testing is not directly related to dentistry, it is an important diagnostic tool for eye health, and dentists often work closely with eye care professionals to ensure overall patient health.