Predictive value of tonometry with Tono-pen XL in primary care

Abstract

This is a descriptive study designed to assess the predictive value of intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement in GPs' offices in an urban healthcare site using Tono-pen XL. A total of 2044 patients, aged > or =40 years, were enrolled by consecutive sampling from patients visiting the GP. Those participants who had IOP > or =21 mmHg were referred to the ophthalmologist. Of the 226 then tested, ocular hypertension was confirmed in 100 participants (4.89%, 95% CI [confidence interval] = 3.93 to 5.85%). Predictive value was 44.2%. These results suggest the validity of using Tono-pen XL in the GP's office to detect ocular hypertension.