MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Fluorescein eye stain

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

Fluorescein eye stain

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Florescent eye test

Definition Return to top

This is a test that uses orange dye (fluorescein) and a blue light to detect foreign bodies in the eye. This test can also detect damage to the cornea, the outer surface of the eye.

How the test is performed Return to top

A piece of blotting paper containing fluorescein dye is placed in your eye. You will be asked to blink. Blinking spreads the dye around and coats the "tear film" covering the surface of the cornea. (The tear film contains water, oil, and mucus to protect and lubricate the eye.) A blue light is then directed at your eye. Any abnormalities in the surface of the cornea will be stained by the dye and appear green under the blue light.

The ophthalmologist or optometrist (eye doctor) can determine the location and probable cause of the cornea problem depending on the size, location, and shape of the staining.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

You will need to remove your contact lenses before the test.

For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
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)

How the test will feel Return to top

If eyes are extremely dry, the blotting paper may be slightly scratchy. The dye may cause a mild and brief stinging sensation.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test is useful in identifying superficial scratches or other problems with the surface of the cornea. It can also help reveal foreign bodies on the eye surface. It can be used after contacts are prescribed to determine if there is irritation of the surface of the cornea.

Normal Values Return to top

If the test result is normal, the dye remains in the tear film on the surface of the eye and does not adhere to the eye itself.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

corneal abrasion (a scratch on the surface of the cornea)
infection
injury or trauma
foreign bodies, such as eyelashes or dust (see eye - foreign object in)
Abnormal tear production (dry eye)
Severe dry eye associated with arthritis (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

blocked tear duct

What the risks are Return to top

If the fluorescein touches the skin surface, there may be a slight, brief, discoloration.

Special considerations Return to top

This test is very useful for detecting injuries or abnormalities on the surface of the cornea.

Update Date: 7/21/2003

Updated by: Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.