Which common test is used to assess intraocular pressure?

Tonometry is the correct answer because it specifically measures intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial in assessing the risk of glaucoma and other ocular conditions. This test provides direct insight into the fluid pressure inside the eye, helping healthcare professionals determine whether the pressure is within a normal range or elevated. Elevated intraocular pressure can indicate potential damage to the optic nerve, making this measurement essential in routine eye exams and in the management of patients at risk for or already diagnosed with glaucoma.

Retinoscopy, on the other hand, is primarily used to determine the refractive error of the eye by observing the reflex of light through the pupil as the device is moved. Ophthalmoscopy is a technique to examine the interior structures of the eye, such as the retina and optic nerve, but does not measure IOP. Perimetry is used to measure the visual field, helping to assess peripheral vision and detect blind spots; it does not evaluate intraocular pressure. Understanding these distinctions underscores why tonometry is the standard test for assessing intraocular pressure.