Comparison between normal values of 2- and 5-minute Schirmer test without anesthesia

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ocular Surface Disease
• Diagnostic Testing

Background:

• The Schirmer test I, performed without topical anesthesia, is a standard method for evaluating tear secretion.
• Assessing tear production is crucial for diagnosing dry eye disease and other ocular surface conditions.
• Patient comfort and test duration are important considerations in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the diagnostic utility and patient acceptability of the 2-minute versus the 5-minute Schirmer test I.
• To determine if the 2-minute test can reliably replace the 5-minute test in healthy individuals.

Main Methods:

• 162 healthy participants (20-85 years) underwent simultaneous bilateral Schirmer test I.
• Tear secretion was measured at 2 and 5 minutes.
• Participants provided feedback on test duration and discomfort.

Main Results:

• Mean tear secretion was 12.71 mm (right) and 12.62 mm (left) at 2 minutes, and 16.74 mm (right) and 16.83 mm (left) at 5 minutes.
• No significant differences in tear secretion were observed based on age, gender, or eye laterality.
• Over 94% of eyes met the >10 mm threshold at 2 minutes, comparable to the 5-minute test, with participants preferring the shorter duration.

Conclusions:

• The 2-minute Schirmer test I demonstrates comparable results to the 5-minute test in healthy individuals.
• The 2-minute test is more acceptable to both patients and clinicians due to reduced discomfort and time.
• The 2-minute Schirmer test I can be considered a valid alternative to the 5-minute test, with normal values typically exceeding 10 mm.