Gonioscopy

Test Overview

Gonioscopy is an eye examination to look at the front part of your eye (anterior chamber) between the cornea and the iris. See an illustration of the eye.

Gonioscopy is a painless examination to see whether the area where fluid drains out of your eye (called the drainage angle) is open or closed. It is often done during a regular eye examination, depending on your age and whether you are at high risk for developing glaucoma.

Gonioscopy is done if your doctor (ophthalmologist) thinks you should be checked for glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye disease that can cause blindness by damaging the optic nerve. If you have glaucoma, gonioscopy can help your doctor see which type of glaucoma you have.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: May 23, 2006
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Ian MacDonald, MDCM, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
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