A Noncontact Pneumatic Esthesiometer for Measurement of Ocular Sensitivity

Abstract

We conclude that this pneumatic esthesiometer provides repeatable and reliable measures of ocular-surface sensitivity.

Corneal Neurotization: A Novel Solution to Neurotrophic Keratopathy

“…Accurate measurement of corneal sensitivity can be a reliable test of long-term corneal compromise, and strong correlations exist between sensibility and the number and density of nerves and between numbers of nerves and the number of superficial corneal epithelial cells. 14,15 As the traditional standard method of assessing corneal sensibility, use of the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer allows data to be compared with Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery • January 2009 previous studies. Also, although newer devices such as the noncontact gas esthesiometer provide greater versatility and repeatability, this traditional testing method remains highly sensitive and cost efficient.…”

The Association Between Eye Color and Corneal Sensitivity Measured Using a Belmonte Esthesiometer

“…Disadvantages of the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer include the invasive nature of the procedure, which may damage corneal epithelium, the anxiety it causes patients when they see thread approaching their eyes, and the numerous technical factors that affect both the device itself and the sensitivity measurements. [6][7][8] More recently, there have been a number of pneumatic esthesiometers used that reduce or eliminate many of the disadvantages of the Cochet-Bonnet device, some with the major additional advantage of selectively stimulating specific neurons on the ocular surface. 7,[9][10][11][12][13] These devices typically blow a jet of air, the temperature of which may be controlled or at room temperature, onto the ocular surface to generate mechanical and thermal stimuli.…”

“…[6][7][8] More recently, there have been a number of pneumatic esthesiometers used that reduce or eliminate many of the disadvantages of the Cochet-Bonnet device, some with the major additional advantage of selectively stimulating specific neurons on the ocular surface. 7,[9][10][11][12][13] These devices typically blow a jet of air, the temperature of which may be controlled or at room temperature, onto the ocular surface to generate mechanical and thermal stimuli. With carbon dioxide added to the air, chemical stimuli may be generated because the CO 2 dissolves in the tears forming a local acidic area.…”

Delayed tear clearance in contact lens associated papillary conjunctivitis

“…27 It was suggested that delayed tear clearance leads to chronic ocular surface inflammation, which in turn could sensitize the nerves that are responsible for the irritation symptoms. 28 Since corneal sensitivity decreased after contact lens wear, 29 it is possible that contact lens wearers visit a doctor at a later stage than patients with non-specific ocular irritation symptoms. This delay allows the papillae enough time to build up in the conjunctiva.…”