Which method is commonly used to measure intraocular pressure (IOP)?

Tonometry is the standard method employed to measure intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring eye conditions such as glaucoma. This technique involves using devices that can accurately measure the pressure within the eye, helping to assess the health of the optic nerve and overall eye function.

When elevated IOP is detected, it can prompt further evaluation and management to prevent potential vision loss. This method can include contact tonometry, non-contact tonometry (commonly referred to as air puff tonometry), and several other forms that each have their specific applications and benefits.

Other methods like optical coherence tomography, perimetry, and fundus photography serve different purposes in the realm of optometry. Optical coherence tomography is primarily used for imaging the retina and assessing its layers, perimetry is utilized for visual field testing to check for areas of vision loss, and fundus photography captures images of the back of the eye, including the retina, to evaluate for signs of disease. While all these techniques are important in comprehensive eye care, they do not provide direct measurements of IOP. Thus, tonometry remains the definitive choice for accurately assessing intraocular pressure.