Which ocular condition is typically assessed using the exophthalmometer?

The exophthalmometer is a specialized instrument used to measure the degree of protrusion of the eyeball, a condition known as exophthalmos. This measurement is particularly significant in the assessment of Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid and often leads to the thickening of the tissues behind the eyes. As a result, the eyes may bulge outward, making it crucial to monitor this protrusion for both diagnosis and management of the condition.

In contrast, the other conditions listed do not primarily involve the measurement of eye protrusion. Retinal detachment pertains to the separation of the retina from the underlying tissue and is typically diagnosed through direct observation or imaging. Macular degeneration primarily affects the macula and is assessed through visual acuity tests and retinal imaging, rather than measuring eye position. Cataracts involve clouding of the lens and are evaluated through visual acuity tests and slit-lamp examinations, not through the use of an exophthalmometer. Therefore, the use of this instrument is specifically relevant to assessing Graves' disease.