A slit lamp is a binocular stereoscopic microscope combined with a high-intensity adjustable light source that projects a thin beam (slit) of light into the eye. It allows detailed examination of the anterior segment of the eye under magnification and illumination.
It is one of the most essential diagnostic instruments in ophthalmology and optometry clinics.
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Parts of the Slit Lamp
1. Base Unit – Provides smooth movement in all directions. It contains the joystick for vertical and horizontal adjustments.
2. Illumination System – Includes a bright halogen or LED light source, adjustable slit width (0–14 mm), slit height, filters, and diaphragms.
3. Magnification System (Microscope) – A binocular microscope with variable magnification (usually 6x–40x). It provides a stereoscopic (3D) view of ocular structures.
4. Observation System – Consists of eyepieces, prism, and objective lens allowing clear viewing and focusing.
5. Chin Rest and Headrest – Helps in stabilizing the patient’s head during examination.
6. Joystick and Control Knobs – For precise control of the slit beam position and focus.
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Principle
The slit lamp works on the principle of slit illumination and stereoscopic viewing.
A narrow slit beam of light is directed obliquely into the eye. When this light passes through transparent ocular structures, it forms optical sections, allowing visualization of each layer in cross-section — like the cornea, anterior chamber, lens, etc.
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Illumination Techniques
1. Diffuse illumination – For overall view of anterior eye.
2. Direct focal illumination – For detailed layer-by-layer study (e.g., cornea).
3. Indirect illumination – For examining transparent or faint lesions.
4. Specular reflection – To study corneal endothelium.
5. Retroillumination – From iris or fundus reflection to highlight opacities.
6. Sclerotic scatter – For detecting corneal edema or foreign body.
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Uses of Slit Lamp
Examination of eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, anterior chamber, iris, lens, and anterior vitreous.
To measure anterior chamber depth.
Contact lens fitting and evaluation.
Used in tonometry, gonioscopy, fundus examination (with auxiliary lenses).
Detection of ocular diseases like cataract, keratitis, uveitis, corneal ulcer, and foreign bodies.
For post-operative and follow-up evaluation.
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Advantages
Provides magnified 3D view of ocular structures.
Enables precise localization of lesions.
Allows photography or video recording with digital attachment.
Useful for both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
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Disadvantages
Limited field of view.
Requires patient cooperation.
High-intensity light may cause discomfort.
Not suitable for posterior segment without additional lenses.
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Conclusion
The slit lamp is a fundamental instrument in optometry and ophthalmology for detailed anterior segment evaluation. Its combination of magnification, illumination, and binocular vision provides an accurate