PACHYMETRY TEST

Cornea thickness test also called as Pachymetry test is a simple, painless test to measure the thickness of your cornea — the clear window at the front of the eye. 

A probe called a pachymeter probe is gently placed on the front of the eye (the cornea) to measure its thickness.

Pachymetry test is used for the following:

• To determine if the patient’s corneal thickness is appropriate for LASIK or should he / she opt for another type of treatment
• In routine eye exams when the doctor suspects any corneal abnormality
• As an essential part of the glaucoma examination
• To manage / treat various corneal diseases e.g. Fuch’s dystrophy, bullous keratopathy & keratoconus

Pachymetry test or Corneal thickness test can also assist in evaluating whether the current medical treatment is working well. It is often an accurate means of assessing the progression of various eye disorders.

Corneal Thickness test and Glaucoma

The thickness of your cornea may impact readings of your intraocular pressure. If you have thin corneas, your eye pressure will read falsely low. Similarly, if you have a thicker cornea, we may record a higher intraocular pressure.  This may mislead your eye doctor to conclude that you have glaucoma and start you on a course of treatment when you actually have no risk.

Corneal thickess and LASIK

Corneal thickness test is compulsory if you are considering LASIK to ensure that your corneas are thick enough so support the corneal flap. If you do not qualify for LASIK, you may be able to use one of the alternate laser vision corrections such as EpiLASIK or Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL). 

HOW IS PACHYMETRY TEST DONE