What is the difference between Schirmer test 1 and 2?

The test can be performed with anaesthetic (Schirmer 1) or without anaesthetic (Schirmer 2). Theoretically, a Schirmer 1 evaluates baseline secretion whereas a Schirmer 2 (without anaesthetic) measures baseline plus reflex secretion.

How do you do a Schirmer test 1?

Schirmer’s test uses paper strips inserted into the eye for several minutes to measure the production of tears. Both eyes are tested at the same time. Most often, this test consists of placing a small strip of filter paper inside the lower eyelid (inferior fornix). The eyes are closed for 5 minutes.

What is Schirmer 2 test?

Schirmer II test is performed by irritating the nasal mucosa with a cotton-tipped applicator prior to measuring tear production, which is mainly used for measuring the reflex tear secretion of main lacrimal gland. S I t has two branches: S I t without anesthesia and with topical anesthesia.

What does the Schirmer tear test measure?

The Schirmer’s test is used determine if your tear glands produce enough tears to keep your eyes adequately moist. Calibrated strips of a non-toxic filter paper are used. One free end is placed within your lower eyelid.

How do I record my Schirmer test?

Stick the strips into the patient’s documentation and record the measurements below each strip, e.g., “10 mm in 5 minutes”. If the strips are completely moistened before five minutes, record appropriately, e.g., “30 mm in 3 minutes”.

What is the normal value for Schirmer test?

Typically, 10–20 mm is considered borderline and greater than 20 mm is typically normal. The Schirmer tear test uses a 5 by 35 mm strip of filter paper to measure basic and reflex tear secretion when used without anaesthetic.

How do you read a Schirmer test?

Without anesthesia, wetting of less than 15 mm of a Schirmer strip indicates dry eyes. With anesthesia, the interpretation is as follows: 0 to 5 mm of wetting, severe dry eyes; 5 to 10 mm of wetting, moderately dry eyes; 10 to 15 mm of wetting, mildly dry eyes; and greater than 15 mm of wetting, normal tear function.

What is an abnormal tear break-up time?

The TBUT is recorded as the number of seconds that elapse between the last blink and the appearance of the first dry spot in the tear film, as seen in this progression of these slit lamps photos over time. A TBUT under 10 seconds is considered abnormal.

What do you need to know about the Schirmer’s test?

Schirmer’s Test. The Schirmer’s test is used determine if your tear glands produce enough tears to keep your eyes adequately moist. Calibrated strips of a non-toxic filter paper are used.

What’s the normal Schirmer tear test for dogs?

The normal Schirmer tear test is 15 mm wetting/min or greater for the dog and 10 mm/min or greater for the cat. Clinically dry eye in dogs can manifest as corneal and conjunctival disease and is characterized by a copious mucopurulent discharge. The aim of dry eye therapy is to improve the precorneal tear film.

What happens if you Close Your Eyes during a Schirmer test?

Closing the eyes tightly or rubbing the eyes during the test can cause abnormal test results. After 5 minutes, the doctor removes the paper and measures how much of it has become moist. Sometimes the test is done without numbing drops to test for other types of tear problems.

How does the Schirmer tear test work without anesthesia?

The Schirmer tear test performed with and without anesthesia evaluates tear adequacy and often aids in the diagnosis of dry eye syndrome. The Schirmer test performed without anesthesia measures basal tear secretion and reflex tear secretion.