The thickness of the cornea is important to ensure accuracy of the pressure measurement of the eye. The standard method of measuring the intraocular pressure is Goldmann applanation tonometry. If the cornea is thinner than average, Goldmann tonometry may give a falsely low result and the true pressure in the eye may be higher. Alternately, if the cornea is thicker than average, a high pressure reading suggesting a risk for glaucoma may not represent the true internal pressure of the eye, which may be normal.
A thin cornea can be an independent risk factor for glaucoma, or can be a sign of keratoconus, a condition which can result in progressive thinning of the cornea. Pachymetry can also be used for patients with corneal dystrophies that can result in edema and thickening of the cornea. Pachymetry is also measured prior to refractive surgeries such as LASIK to ensure enough corneal tissue is present to safely perform the treatment.
For more information, please contact D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare.
Staffed by a team of Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, Opticians, technical and administrative staff who provide eye examinations for adults and children, cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOL), laser vision correction such as LASIK, diagnosis and treatment of cornea disease including cornea transplants, care for diseases of the retina including diabetes and age related macular degeneration and diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma as well as contact lenses, eyeglasses, eyewear and optical services.
D'Ambrosio Eye Care is a leading eye and LASIK care practice serving Athol, Acton, Berlin, Bolton, Boylston, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Clinton, Concord, Fitchburg, Gardner, Greenfield, Groton, Harvard, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Littleton, Lowell, Lunenburg, Marlborough, Milford, Shelburne Falls, Shirley, Sterling, Stow, Sudbury, Templeton, Westminster, Westborough, Winchendon and Worcester, Massachusetts.
