What is the purpose of a slit lamp examination?

The purpose of a slit lamp examination is to provide a magnified view of the eye's anterior segment. This examination allows the eye care professional to closely inspect structures such as the eyelids, cornea, iris, and lens, which are critical to understanding various eye conditions and diseases. By using a slit lamp, the examiner can illuminate and magnify these areas, enabling detailed observation and diagnosis.

In contrast, measuring intraocular pressure is typically performed with a tonometer, which is a different piece of equipment and focuses on assessing glaucoma risk rather than providing a detailed view of the anterior segment. Evaluating the retina involves other techniques, such as indirect ophthalmoscopy or fundus photography, as the retina is located at the back of the eye. Testing color vision assesses a person's ability to distinguish colors and is not part of a slit lamp examination, as it focuses on anterior segment structures rather than assessing visual accuracy or retinal health.