Schirmer Test

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is the term used to describe dry eyes. This phenomenon can occur in isolation (primary Sjögren syndrome) or in association with many other rheumatological conditions.

The test is performed by attaching a specially shaped piece of filter paper to the lower eyelid. This is left for 5 min, and the distance that has become wet is then measured. Normally 10 mm or more of the paper will become wet.

It is important to bear in mind, however, that normal tear production is reduced in old age. Also, drugs with anticholinergic properties, such as tricyclic antidepressants, reduce tear production and may result in a false-positive Schirmer test.