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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
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Corneal Sensitivity Testing Procedure for Ophthalmologic and Optometric Patients
Published on: August 2, 2024
Factors affecting corneal and conjunctival sensitivity measurement
Blanka Golebiowski1, Eric B Papas, Fiona Stapleton
1Vision Cooperative Research Centre, Institute for Eye Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. b.golebiowski@unsw.edu.au
Summary
Ocular surface sensitivity, measured by air stimulus threshold, is linked between the cornea and conjunctiva. Female subjects exhibit higher sensitivity, with corneal sensitivity decreasing with age in females.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular Surface Research
- Sensory Physiology
Background:
- Ocular surface sensitivity is crucial for detecting stimuli and maintaining ocular health.
- Understanding factors influencing ocular sensitivity aids in diagnosing and managing sensory disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if air stimulus threshold measurements are influenced by ocular surface location, gender, age, time of day, temperature, or humidity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of ocular surface threshold measurements using the CRCERT-Belmonte esthesiometer.
- Measurements taken at the corneal apex and inferior conjunctiva in 49 corneal and 33 conjunctival subjects.
- Statistical analysis included mixed model ANOVA, paired t-tests, and Pearson's correlation.
Main Results:
- Corneal and conjunctival thresholds were significantly different but well-correlated (p<0.001).
- Female subjects showed significantly higher sensitivity at both cornea and conjunctiva (p=0.04, p=0.02).
- Corneal sensitivity significantly decreased with age in females (r=-0.49, p=0.01) but not males.
Conclusions:
- Corneal and conjunctival sensitivity are associated.
- Gender and age (in females) are significant factors influencing ocular surface sensitivity.
- Ocular sensitivity is not affected by time of day, ambient temperature, or humidity within normal ranges.
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