In ophthalmology, diagnosing corneal ulcers effectively involves using a specific dye and filter combination to highlight the affected area. The dye typically used is fluorescein, which aids in visualizing the ulcer under a cobalt blue filter. Here is a brief explanation:
Steps in Diagnosing Corneal Ulcers with Fluorescein Dye:
- Application of Dye: A fluorescein dye strip is moistened and applied to the eye. The dye adheres to areas of tissue loss or damage, highlighting any ulcerations on the corneal surface.
- Visualization: The patient’s eye is illuminated with a cobalt blue filter light source. Under this light, fluorescein emits a bright green fluorescence where the corneal epithelium is compromised, which helps in identifying and assessing the extent of corneal ulcers.
The correct choice, therefore, is Fluorescein dye - visualized under cobalt blue filter. This combination is effective in revealing corneal defects and aiding healthcare professionals in diagnosing corneal ulcers accurately.