The slit-lamp examination looks at structures that are at the front of the eye (the anterior segment): The eyelid, the sclera (white outer structure of the eye), conjunctiva (membranes lining the eyelid and sclera surface), iris (colored part of the eye), natural crystalline lens, and the cornea (thin transparent membrane that covers the iris and the lens).

The slit-lamp is an instrument used with a high-intensity light source that can be focused to shine as a slit. It is used with the biomicroscope (an optical instrument that is like a microscope with two eyepieces).

While you are seated in the examining chair, the instrument is placed in front of you and you rest your chin and forehead on a support to keep your head steady. Your eyes are then examined through the biomicroscope. A fine strip of paper that is stained with an orange-colored dye (fluorescein) may be touched to the side of your eye. The dye stains the tear film on the surface of the eye to help with the examination. The dye rinses out of the eye with tears.

After this examination, drops may be placed in your eyes to dilate the pupils. The drops take about 15 to 20 minutes to work. The examination is then repeated, allowing the back of the eye to be examined.

• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

There will be light sensitivity for a few hours after the exam if dilating drops are used.

The slit lamp exam may detect many diseases of the eye, including:

• Cataract
• Corneal injury
• Macular degeneration
• Presbyopia
• Retinal detachment
• Retinal vessel occlusion
• Retinitis pigmentosa
• Sjogren syndrome
• uveitis