Analysis of difference in results of Schirmer test I and II in healthy individuals performed with open and closed eyes

Purpose: To analyze the difference between measurements of Schirmer test I (St1) and basal Schirmer test (St2) with open and closed eyelids. Methods: The research was conducted as a clinical study on eighty eyes of 40 healthy volunteers, 18 male and 22 female, aging 30 4 years. All ST were carried out in a closed environment with the absence of airflow (humidity 59±2.50% and temperature 21.04±1.560C). Sti and Stb were performed with the individuals on both eyes with open and closed eyelids, with an interval of 5 hours. All ST were conducted in 5 minutes. For statistical analysis, the ST strip's wetting velocity (STV) (in millimetres per minute) was calculated, dividing the ST values by its wetting time. If ST values were 35mm before 5 minutes, wetting time was recorded to obtain STV. Results: STV measurements of St1 performed with closed eyes (10.33±12.05) were statistically different (p<0.0001) from those performed with open eyes (19.04±18.02) and STV measurements of St2 performed with closed eyes (4.12±3.78) were statistically different from those performed with open eyes (6.96±6.05), (p<0.0001). Conclusion: ST performed with open or closed eyelids can have an important influence in the results of St1 and St2 in normal individuals.