Dye Disappearance Test

Test for a Blocked Tear Duct

If your child is referred for a possible blocked tear duct, a pediatric optometrist or ophthalmologist may perform a special test to confirm the diagnosis. A dye disappearance test is used to determine if tears are draining properly. Before the procedure, the doctor will numb the child's eye with a special eyedrop. The doctor will then place a small amount of fluorescein dye into the eye. After about 15 minutes, the doctor will examine the eye with a special light that easily detects the dye. Normally, tears wash the dye away into the tear duct. If the dye remains in the eye, the tear duct is probably blocked. The quantity of tears in the eye will then be examined to determine if it is more than it should be. An excessive amount of tearing is a common symptom for a blocked tear duct.