Corneal Sensitivity Measurement in Clinical Ophthalmology: The Science of Aesthesiometry

Kuldeep Raizada, Deepa Rani Diddi, Sayamprove Baruah

Abstract: Background: Corneal sensation, mediated by the trigeminal nerve's ophthalmic branch, is fundamental to ocular surface homeostasis. Reduced corneal sensitivity- termed hypoaesthesia or anaesthesia- is both a consequence and an accelerator of ocular surface disease. Accurate, reproducible measurement of corneal sensation is therefore essential for the diagnosis, staging, and therapeutic monitoring of a wide range of conditions, most critically neurotrophic keratopathy. Objective: To review the clinical science of corneal aesthesiometry, the history and operating principles of the Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer, its evidence base across key ocular surface and systemic diseases, and to present the specifications of the Smart Cochet-Bonnet Aesthesiometer by Akriti Ophthalmic Pvt. Ltd. Product: The Smart Cochet-Bonnet Aesthesiometer (Akriti Ophthalmic, Hyderabad) employs a nylon monofilament of 0.12 mm diameter with a length range of 5-60 mm, delivering calibrated pressures of 11?200 mg/0.0113 mm?. The instrument features a retractable tip for filament protection, a clearly readable scale, and an ergonomic design optimised for rapid clinical and slit lamp examination. Conclusion: The Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer remains the most widely validated and clinically accessible tool for corneal sensitivity testing. The Smart Cochet-Bonnet Aesthesiometer from Akriti Ophthalmic delivers precision, durability, and ease of use, establishing it as an indispensable instrument for any corneal, anterior segment, or comprehensive ophthalmic practice.

Keywords: corneal sensitivity, aesthesiometer, Cochet-Bonnet, neurotrophic keratopathy, corneal innervation, hypoaesthesia, dry eye disease, diabetes, herpes simplex keratitis, ocular surface disease, Akriti Ophthalmic

How to Cite?: Kuldeep Raizada, Deepa Rani Diddi, Sayamprove Baruah, "Corneal Sensitivity Measurement in Clinical Ophthalmology: The Science of Aesthesiometry", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 614-621, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26509002101, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26509002101

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