The cover–uncover test is used to differentiate if a misalignment is either a tropia or a phoria; that is, if the above cover test demonstrates no tropia, it is used to determine if a phoria (i.e. latent strabismus) is present. Large ones can be associated with asthenopia (i.e. eye strain) and diplopia.

When do you do a cover test?

The cover–uncover test is used to differentiate if a misalignment is either a tropia or a phoria; that is, if the above cover test demonstrates no tropia, it is used to determine if a phoria (i.e. latent strabismus) is present. Large ones can be associated with asthenopia (i.e. eye strain) and diplopia.

What is a normal cover uncover test?

Cover one eye for 1-2 seconds. Rapidly uncover the first eye and cover the second for 1-2 seconds. Rapidly uncover the second eye and cover the first again for 1-2 seconds. Observe for refixation (suggests hidden phoria)