University of Arizona engineers have designed a new probe that allows for simple self-testing of glaucoma. It can also be used in situations that are either difficult to address or impossible to test with current procedures. The probe works by gently rubbing the eyelid to detect stiffness and infer the intraocular pressure of the eye.
Designed by Eniko Enikov, a UA professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering, the system utilizes micro-force sensors, specially designed microchips, and math-based procedures programmed into its memory.
In addition to screening for glaucoma, the device corrects some problems with the current procedure, and can be used to measure drainage of intraocular fluid. "Eye pressure varies over a 24-hour cycle," Enikov said. "So it could be low at the doctor's office and three hours later it might be high. With only a single test, the doctor might miss the problem. Having the ability to take more frequent tests can lead to earlier detection in some cases." Patients could use the probe at home to trace how much the pressure decreases after using eye drop medication, for instance.
