Tests for squint and related disorders
Special tests for squint and related disorders
Cover test and prism tests:
An important part of the evaluation of a patient with squint is the cover test and prism tests. These tests are conducted in the office of the eye doctor itself. Using these tests the eye doctor is able to classify the type of the squint and to grade the severity of the same. This information is needed to plan the treatment including surgery where needed. With a torch light and a set of loose prisms the eye doctor is able to evaluate squint to a great degree.
Orthoptic evaluation:
Orthoptics is the study of how effectively the two eyes function together (binocular vision). This testing is done on many instruments including the synaptophore.. Special instruments are used to measure the near point of convergence and near point of accommodation. These points give a guide as to how difficult it is for a person to view near objects. Many people with eyestrain on performing near work may be helped by exercises after the orthoptic evaluation.
Corneal topography:
Corneal topography is the detailed mapping of the surface of the cornea. Advanced computer analysis of several spots on the surface of the cornea using the study of the reflected image is done. Color coded graphs of the surface map enable the doctor to diagnose certain conditions such as keratoconus. Before undergoing excimer laser treatment for getting rid of glasses, one needs to perform this test to understand the surface of the cornea better and plan the treatment accordingly.
Pachymetry:
Pachymetry is the study of the thickness of the cornea. The accurate measurement of the thickness is made possible by using ultrasound or optical means. Measurement of the thickness is important in the diagnosis and management of certain corneal conditions such as keratoconus, corneal endothelial dystrophy etc.
Specular microscopy:
Specular microscopy is a test that enables the evaluation of the back most layer of the cornea called the endothelium. The health of this layer is important in maintaining the clarity of the cornea. With age, injury, surgery and in some diseases this layer may have reduced number of cells and become abnormal. Study of this layer is done by counting the number of cells per square millimeter as well as study the type of the cells. This study is important in planning certain surgeries.
