Schirmer Test
SCH
Description
"Schirmer" test evaluates your eye’s natural tear production by measuring moisture using thin strips of paper. These are gently placed under the lower eyelids to see how many tears are produced over several minutes. It’s often recommended for diagnosing dry eye syndrome or tear gland dysfunction. The results help doctors decide whether treatments like artificial tears, prescription drops, or other therapies are needed. Regular testing supports long-term relief and helps prevent discomfort or vision irritation.
Category
Eye Function
Procedure
Non-Invasive
Sample Type
Fluid
Units
Millimeters
Procedure Category
Apply, Measure
Test Group
Ophthalmological System Group
Test Group Description
Ophthalmological System Group: Tests within this group focus on evaluating the health and function of the eyes and visual system. These assessments provide insights into visual acuity, eye anatomy, and ocular health.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Without Anesthesia: ≥10 mm (2 min)
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Without Anesthesia: ≥10 mm (5 min)
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Allergic conjunctivitis (Eye inflammation due to allergic reactions)
Blepharitis (Eyelid inflammation)
Conjunctivitis (Inflammation of the conjunctiva, also known as pink eye)
Dry eye syndrome (Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality)
Ectropion (Outward turning of the eyelid)
Entropion (Inward tu...
Key Reasons For Testing
Dry Eye Syndrome Evaluation: Diagnoses and monitors dry eye syndrome, a common ocular condition.
Sjögren's Syndrome Screening: Identifies aqueous deficiency to aid in diagnosing Sjögren’s syndrome.
Ocular Surface Assessment: Evaluates tear production to diagnose ocular surface disorders.
Preoperative Assessment: Assesses tear production before ocular surgeries to minimize postoperative dry eye risks.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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