Which of the following is NOT listed as testing for RCE/EBMD?

• A. NaFl
• B. Lid eversion
• C. Retroillumination
• D. Slit lamp exam without fluorescein

Answer: (C)

When assessing recurrent corneal erosion or EBMD, the exam relies on techniques that reveal the epithelial surface and its irregularities. Fluorescein staining under cobalt blue light is used to highlight defects and to visualize map-dot-fingerprint patterns that are characteristic of EBMD. A slit-lamp examination performed with fluorescein helps you see the extent and pattern of epithelial irregularities. Lid eversion is also important because lid margin disease or blinking abnormalities can contribute to recurrent erosions and needs to be evaluated.

Retroillumination, while it can show some surface irregularities in certain contexts, is not typically listed as a standard testing method for RCE/EBMD in NBEO practice materials. The key diagnostic tools for this condition are fluorescein-based visualization and direct slit-lamp assessment of the epithelial basement membrane, not retroillumination.