What is the primary use of a keratometer?

The primary use of a keratometer is to assess corneal curvature. This instrument specifically measures the curvature of the anterior surface of the cornea, which is essential for evaluating the eye's refractive properties. Understanding the corneal shape helps in diagnosing various conditions, planning for contact lens fitting, and performing refractive surgeries like LASIK. The readings from the keratometer can provide important data on astigmatism, which occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped.

Measuring intraocular pressure is done using tonometry, while determining visual acuity involves optometric tests using an eye chart. Evaluating lens prescriptions typically uses a phoropter or a lensometer. These different tools and techniques serve unique purposes, establishing the keratometer's specialized role in examining the cornea specifically.