What is the purpose of using an autorefractor in an eye exam?

An autorefractor is specifically designed to assess refractive errors in the eye, making it invaluable during an eye examination. This device automatically measures how light is bent as it enters the eye, helping to determine whether an individual is nearsighted, farsighted, or has astigmatism. By providing a preliminary estimate of the eye's refractive status, the autorefractor aids eye care professionals in prescribing the appropriate corrective lenses.

While measuring corneal thickness and inspecting the fundus are essential components of comprehensive eye exams, these tasks are not the function of an autorefractor. Corneal thickness is typically assessed using tools like pachymeters, and fundus examinations involve direct observation of the retina and optic nerve, usually through ophthalmoscopy or fundus photography. Determining lens power is also a step in determining the best prescription for glasses, but it is not a primary measurement the autorefractor provides; rather, it is derived from assessing the refractive errors it detects.