To know if IOP estimation by palpation could have any effect on immediate subsequent applanation tonometry.

: Sequential cases were examined in a general ophthalmology clinic. Those with contraindications for Goldman applanation tonometry, uncooperative, history of glaucoma or ocular surgery were excluded. In all of cases applanation tonometry was performed in both eyes. Then in the first half of cases finger IOP estimation was done on the right eye and left eye used as control with no intervention, in the second half of cases IOP estimation by palpation was done on left eye and right eye was used as control. Again applanation tonometry was performed on both eyes in less than 3 minutes after intervention.

: 99 cases were included in study. Age range was 14-83(44.75+_1.6).There were 73 female and 26 male. Difference in IOP measurement in the test group (finger estimation) was -0.90+_1.25. Difference in IOP measurement in the control group (no finger estimation) was -0.54+_ 1.09. Difference between two groups was statistically significant with p value 0.03.

Finger estimation of IOP causes a statistically significant but clinically insignificant decrease in subsequent Goldman applanation tonometry.