Rose Bengal strips detect damaged cells and mucus during eye exams, either as a primary diagnostic tool or following sodium fluorescein application.
Instructions for Use:
- Preparation
- Ensure the animal’s eyes have not received any ophthalmic medications or treatments prior to testing.
- Position the animal’s eye away from direct light and provide adequate head restraint.
- Open Packaging
- Tear open the pouch from both ends using thumbs and index fingers, pulling it open to approximately half its length.
- Remove Strip
- Gently extract the strip, grasping only the flat end.
- Moisten Strip
- Apply sterile water or ophthalmic saline to the colored tip of the strip.
- Apply Strip
- Insert the colored tip into the lower palpebral conjunctival sac. Direct the animal’s gaze upward to secure placement.
- Maintain Position
- Instruct the animal to close the eye and hold the strip in place for several seconds.
- Interpret Results
- Assess corneal and ocular surface health based on Rose Bengal staining patterns post-examination.
Caution:
- Ensure proper strip placement and avoid contact between the moistened tip and non-conjunctival surfaces.
- Discontinue use immediately if discomfort or hypersensitivity reactions occur.
Precautions:
- Do not use if the individual strip packaging is torn or opened to maintain sterility.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Rose Bengal strips are widely used in animal eye exams to identify corneal damage.
Rose bengal stains dead and devitalized cells and therefore is retained by corneas in which the epithelium is eroded to less than its full thickness.[1]
[1]