Corneal Diseases

Corneal Examination Methods
A non-ophthalmologist can assess corneal transparency, surface brightness, corneal injuries, and corneal sensitivity using a cotton swab and local light. Ophthalmologists, however, use specific devices to evaluate the morphology and function of the cornea:

• Biomicroscopy: Used to binocularly examine the cornea and other structures of the anterior segment. By sending light beams of varying thickness from different angles, the biomicroscope’s magnification is increased, allowing for a detailed examination of the cornea. This is the most commonly used routine examination method.

• Keratometry: Measures the refractive power of the cornea. It is used prior to contact lens fitting and intraocular lens implantation.

• Topography: Used for the topographic analysis of the anterior surface of the cornea.

• Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness.

• Specular Microscopy: Displays the count and structure of endothelial cells.

• Esthesiometry: Assesses corneal sensitivity.

• Corneal Staining Examination: Surface defects of the cornea can be observed using “fluorescein and rose bengal” solutions.