Reuben Merideth, DVM, DACVO

Anatomic and physiologic considerations are the basis for proper diagnostic techniques. We will discuss basic diagnostic procedures and relative pharmacological consideration to enhance the ophthalmic examination.

Equine ocular examination is very similar to small animal examination, with special considerations for the size and use of the animal being examined.

The cornea is the front layer of the fibrous tunic of the eye; it is composed of three distinct layers and one distinct membrane. The outer epithelial layer is approximately five to ten cells thick. The middle stromal layer comprises about 95% of the cornea, and the inside layer is the endothelial layer, and its basement membrane is Descemet's membrane.

Pediatrics, for the purpose of this lecture, will be considered conditions that are genetic, congenital, and early developmental and acquired. They are common in the first year of life. To have the best understanding of many of the genetic and congenital diseases, a review of embryology will be necessary, and we will further highlight embryology as we discuss many of these conditions.

The eyelids often have increased flaccidity and laxity in advanced age. This may result in entropion, often of the lateral aspect of the upper eyelid. Loss of orbital fat pad may result in enophthalmos and protrusion of the third eyelid. This too can lead to entropion, typically of the lower lids.

Anatomic and physiologic considerations are the basis for proper diagnostic techniques. We will discuss basic diagnostic procedures and relative pharmacological consideration to enhance the ophthalmic examination.