Seidel test

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
Seidel’s test is named after the German Ophthalmologist Erich Seidel.

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
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
Do not apply pressure on the eye during test. There is risk of tissue extrusion in doing so.