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Schirmer test. II. A clinical study of its repeatability
Summary
The Schirmer test (ST) for assessing tear adequacy is unreliable in Hong Kong-Chinese individuals. This study found inconsistent results, questioning its clinical value for contact lens fitting and dry eye diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- The Schirmer test (ST) is a primary method for evaluating tear film adequacy.
- It is widely used by optometrists for screening contact lens candidates and diagnosing dry eye disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reliability of the 1-minute Schirmer test (ST) in a Hong Kong-Chinese population.
- To determine the clinical utility of the ST for contact lens wearers and dry eye diagnosis in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A 1-minute Schirmer test (ST) was administered to nine healthy Hong Kong-Chinese subjects.
- Testing was conducted over five to seven visits within a 2-week period to evaluate test-retest reliability.
Main Results:
- The ST yielded inconsistent measurements across multiple visits for the same subjects.
- Four subjects consistently recorded 0 mm/1 min, and 68% of all results fell below 6 mm/1 min, a threshold for normal tear production.
Conclusions:
- The Schirmer test (ST) demonstrated significant unreliability in the studied Hong Kong-Chinese population.
- The findings suggest the ST has limited clinical value for assessing tear adequacy in this demographic, impacting its use in contact lens fitting and dry eye diagnosis.