Overview

Slit Lamp Examination is a fundamental diagnostic procedure used to examine the anterior segment of the eye. This examination is essential for diagnosing corneal, conjunctival, iris, and lens disorders.

Slit lamp examination is crucial for diagnosing corneal diseases, conjunctival disorders, anterior uveitis, cataracts, and other anterior segment pathologies. It provides detailed visualization of ocular structures that cannot be seen with other examination methods.

Indications

Routine Eye Examination

Comprehensive anterior segment evaluation

Corneal Disorders

Evaluation of corneal diseases and injuries

Conjunctival Disorders

Assessment of conjunctival inflammation and tumors

Anterior Uveitis

Evaluation of iris and ciliary body inflammation

Cataract Assessment

Evaluation of lens opacities and position

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

Patient refusal
Severe photophobia
Active corneal infection

Relative Contraindications

Recent eye surgery
Severe eye pain
Uncooperative patient

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes explaining the procedure to patient, adjusting slit lamp settings, ensuring proper patient positioning, selecting appropriate magnification, and preparing for potential complications. All team members should understand their roles.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Patient Preparation

Explain procedure to patient. Position patient at slit lamp. Adjust chin rest and forehead bar. Ensure patient comfort.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate explanation
  • Poor positioning
  • Insufficient comfort

💡 Pro Tip:

Explain that bright light will be used during examination.

Step 2: Equipment Setup

Adjust slit lamp settings. Set appropriate magnification. Check illumination system. Ensure proper function.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor settings
  • Wrong magnification
  • Equipment malfunction

💡 Pro Tip:

Start with low magnification and increase as needed.

Step 3: External Examination

Examine eyelids and lashes. Assess conjunctiva and sclera. Note any abnormalities.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Incomplete examination
  • Missing abnormalities
  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Use diffuse illumination for external examination.

Step 4: Corneal Examination

Examine corneal epithelium and stroma. Assess corneal thickness and clarity. Note any opacities or defects.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Incomplete corneal exam
  • Missing defects
  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Use narrow slit beam for corneal section examination.

Step 5: Anterior Chamber Examination

Assess anterior chamber depth. Look for cells and flare. Examine iris and pupil.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Incomplete assessment
  • Missing inflammation
  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Use narrow slit beam to assess anterior chamber depth.

Step 6: Lens Examination

Examine lens clarity and position. Assess for cataracts. Note any abnormalities.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Incomplete lens exam
  • Missing opacities
  • Poor documentation

💡 Pro Tip:

Use retroillumination to assess lens opacities.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves documenting findings, comparing with previous examinations, monitoring for complications, and determining if additional testing is needed. Regular slit lamp examination is essential for comprehensive eye care.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Patient discomfort Common Photophobia, eye strain Reassurance, breaks if needed Gentle approach, adequate breaks
Incomplete examination 5-10% Missing findings Repeat examination Systematic approach, proper technique
Equipment malfunction Rare Poor visualization, errors Equipment check, repair Regular maintenance, calibration
Patient anxiety 10-15% Poor cooperation, anxiety Reassurance, gentle approach Good communication, explanation

Clinical Pearls

💡

Explain that bright light will be used during examination.

🎯

Start with low magnification and increase as needed.

Use diffuse illumination for external examination.

🔍

Use narrow slit beam for corneal section examination.

📊

Use narrow slit beam to assess anterior chamber depth.

🎨

Use retroillumination to assess lens opacities.

⚠️

Always examine both eyes for comparison.