What is the purpose of using fluorescein in diagnosing corneal issues?

Using fluorescein to visualize corneal surface defects is a critical diagnostic practice in veterinary ophthalmology. When fluorescein dye is applied to the eye, it binds to areas where the corneal epithelium is damaged or disrupted. This is particularly useful for identifying scratches, ulcers, or other surface lesions on the cornea because the dye will only stain those areas where the epithelium is no longer intact, allowing for clear visualization under an ultraviolet light or standard light.

The method is quick, non-invasive, and highly effective in differentiating between normal corneal tissue and affected areas. This enables veterinarians to determine the extent of corneal damage and to make informed decisions about treatment options.

Other options refer to different aspects of ocular health. Measuring refractive error pertains to assessing vision and spectacle prescriptions, which does not involve corneal surface assessment. Assessing tear production relates to diagnosing dry eye conditions rather than direct corneal damage, while testing intraocular pressure is primarily used to evaluate glaucoma and other intraocular diseases, not corneal surface integrity. Thus, fluorescein is specifically tailored for direct evaluation of corneal abnormalities.