Which test is used to detect a corneal abrasion?

The sodium fluorescein stain is the correct test for detecting a corneal abrasion because it highlights areas of damage on the surface of the cornea. When applied to the eye, this fluorescein dye will absorb into any abrasions or defects on the corneal epithelium, making them visible under a blue light. This allows the healthcare provider to precisely identify the location and depth of the abrasion, leading to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

A slit lamp examination, while a valuable tool for closely evaluating the anterior segment of the eye, is typically used in conjunction with fluorescein staining rather than as a standalone test for corneal abrasions. Pupil dilation is primarily utilized to assess the interior structures of the eye and is not specific for detecting surface injuries like corneal abrasions. A visual acuity test measures how well a patient can see but does not provide information about the integrity of the corneal surface. Therefore, sodium fluorescein staining remains the most direct and effective method for diagnosing corneal abrasions.