Which diagnostic step is used to visualize a corneal abrasion after staining?

Which diagnostic step is used to visualize a corneal abrasion after staining?

• A. Visual Acuity Testing with Snellen Chart
• B. Fluorescein Dye with Wood's Lamp
• C. Instillation of Mydriatic Drops and Microscopic Examination
• D. Culture of Eye Discharge

Answer: (B)

The main idea is using a staining dye to reveal a corneal epithelial defect. Fluorescein dye applied to the eye fills in the scratched area, and when viewed under a cobalt blue (Wood’s) lamp the dye fluoresces, making the abrasion appear as a bright green area against the surrounding cornea. This contrast lets you see the size and location of the defect clearly, which is essential for assessing injury and guiding management. Visual acuity testing measures how well the eye sees at a distance and doesn’t show surface corneal injuries. Instilling mydriatic drops with subsequent microscopic examination is used for dilated, deeper ocular evaluation and not specifically for corneal surface visualization. Culturing eye discharge is for identifying infection, not for detecting an abrasion visually.

The main idea is using a staining dye to reveal a corneal epithelial defect. Fluorescein dye applied to the eye fills in the scratched area, and when viewed under a cobalt blue (Wood’s) lamp the dye fluoresces, making the abrasion appear as a bright green area against the surrounding cornea. This contrast lets you see the size and location of the defect clearly, which is essential for assessing injury and guiding management.

Visual acuity testing measures how well the eye sees at a distance and doesn’t show surface corneal injuries. Instilling mydriatic drops with subsequent microscopic examination is used for dilated, deeper ocular evaluation and not specifically for corneal surface visualization. Culturing eye discharge is for identifying infection, not for detecting an abrasion visually.