Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Seidel test
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Seidel’s test is a test used to assess the presence of anterior chamber leakage in the cornea. It is used as a screening test for many corneal disorders including post corneal trauma, corneal perforation and corneal degeneration.
Name
Name
Seidel’s test is named after the German Ophthalmologist Erich Seidel.
Procedure
Procedure
A fluorescein strip containing 10% fluorescein is applied topically to the affected area and is looked at with a cobalt blue filter. At this point, the fluorescein appears dark orange in color. Any changes in color of the fluorescein strip indicate presence corneal deformities.
Results of the test
Results of the test
If the fluorescein strip turns pale upon application to the corneal surface, the person tests positive for corneal deformity he/ she is being tested for. The change in the color of the fluorescein strip is due to dilution of fluorescein caused by the aqueous leakage in the cornea.
Precautions
Precautions
Do not apply pressure on the eye during test. There is risk of tissue extrusion in doing so.