Which test is commonly used to assess for the presence of glaucoma?

• A. Pachymetry
• B. Fundoscopy
• C. Tonometry
• D. Visual acuity test

Answer: (C)

Tonometry is commonly used to assess for the presence of glaucoma because it measures intraocular pressure (IOP), which is a critical factor in the diagnosis of this condition. Glaucoma is characterized by an increase in IOP that can lead to optic nerve damage and loss of vision. By measuring IOP, clinicians can identify individuals who may be at risk for glaucoma and in need of further examination or intervention.

While pachymetry, fundoscopy, and visual acuity tests are important components of a comprehensive eye examination, they serve different purposes. Pachymetry measures corneal thickness, which can provide additional information about glaucoma risk but is not a direct assessment of IOP. Fundoscopy examines the optic nerve and retinal health, allowing detection of damage possibly caused by glaucoma but does not directly measure IOP. Visual acuity tests assess clarity of vision, which can be affected by various eye conditions, but they do not provide information on intraocular pressure. Thus, tonometry is the most relevant test specifically for assessing glaucoma.