Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the best test for diagnosing congenital glaucoma?

1. Fluorescein staining

2. Tonometry

3. Snellen vision exam

4. The refractive index

The correct answer is: Tonometry

Tonometry is the best test for diagnosing congenital glaucoma because it directly measures intraocular pressure (IOP), which is often elevated in this condition. Congenital glaucoma is characterized by the abnormal development of the eye’s drainage system, leading to increased pressure that can damage the optic nerve. In neonates and infants who may not present with specific symptoms, tonometry provides objective data that can indicate the presence of glaucoma. Unlike fluorescein staining, which is used to assess corneal integrity, or the Snellen vision exam, which measures visual acuity, tonometry specifically targets the pressure aspect that is crucial in diagnosing glaucoma. The refractive index measurement is irrelevant in the context of glaucoma diagnosis, as it does not provide information about intraocular pressure or drainage system abnormalities. Therefore, tonometry is critical for identifying elevated IOP and confirming the diagnosis of congenital glaucoma effectively.