The Outer Eye
Conjunctivitis
This is the inflammation of the conjunctival membranes.
Primary causes include infectious agents, foreign bodies, parasites, trauma or . Secondary causes include complications from eyelid problems or keratitis, viral respiratory infections, strangles or EVA. Signs and symptoms include inflammation of the eyelids, redness and serous or purulent .
Treatment includes topical antibiotic eye ointments & NSAIDs or CS.
Cornea
Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is a break in the surface layer of the cornea. They usually develop secondary to trauma to the eye often from a or abrasion due to plant material (hay or straw). Signs include pain on palpation of the eye, redness, tearing, squinting, opacity of the cornea & rough irregular areas on the corneal surface. They appear as dull spots or on the cornea. A serious complication of corneal ulcers is a in which the stroma of the eye ‘melts’ away.
Diagnosis is through fluorescein
to highlight the location of the ulcer.
Treatment includes antibiotic drops or topical ointment to prevent infection. The horse should be kept in a dark stall with limited exercise and a protective mask. Most simple ulcers will heal uneventfully. If infection occurs the ulcer will enlarge deepen and may perforate through the cornea. Treatment will include antibiotics or antifungals as well as anti-inflammatories through infusions or IV. Surgery to repair the cornea may be necessary. Suturing of the eyelids may be necessary to protect they eye. Loss of the eye is possible if treatment is unsuccessful.
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