Eye Library / Diagnostic Tests / Slit Lamp Examination (Biomicroscopy)

Slit lamp examination (biomicroscopy) is performed by using a slit lamp which is an instrument with a high-intensity light source that can be focused and narrowed on the eye. In this simple examination, a patient is asked to rest her chin and forehead on a support to keep her head steady. The structures in the front section of the eye are examined: the eyelids, the cornea, anterior chamber, the surface of the sclera, the iris, and the crystalline lens.

The slit lamp exam may detect many diseases of the eye, including cataract, corneal injury, dry eye syndrome, uveitis and even some retinal diseases like macular degeneration and retinal detachment.