Ophthalmology

The glaucomas are a group of conditions in dogs characterized by increased intraocular pressure and progressive optic nerve and retinal degeneration. This can be one of the most devastating and frustrating ophthalmic conditions, both for the general practitioner and the ophthalmologist. This article will discuss the current clinical understanding of glaucoma and the treatment options.

Ocular disease due to feline herpesvirus (FHV) is common. It is estimated that 80% of cats are latently infected with the virus, and approximately 40% of these cats will suffer recrudescent infection in later life. These estimates are based on data that is several decades old, and the actual percentages may be higher.

Most conditions in ophthalmology have a strong connection to genetics. Often a diagnosis can be made by knowing only the breed, age, and presenting complaint. There are some conditions that are common to one breed but rarely if ever seen in another. This review will list the most notable genetic conditions for each region of the eye.

Ocular emergencies are not commonly seen in general practice, but prompt recognition of the problem may allow for preservation of vision and/or the globe as a whole. This discussion will review five conditions that should be treated as an emergency and how to manage them properly.

Abnormalities of the lacrimal system are common and generally divided into those that affect the secretory system (e.g., dry eye) or the excretory system (e.g., blocked tear duct).

Ophthalmology is a unique specialty because nearly all the ocular structures can be directly visualized. Modern equipment allows a detailed and highly magnified evaluation of the interior of the eye. Furthermore, many systemic diseases are first manifested as an ocular problem. For these reasons, a thorough eye exam can be very rewarding. This discussion will review basics of the ophthalmic exam.

The eyelids of domestic animals have many important functions. They are important in protecting the globe, contributing to and spreading the tear film, and preventing the buildup of ocular pathogens and environmental debris. This article will review the basics of eyelid anatomy and function as well as discuss common problems associated with these structures

The crystalline lens is a remarkable structure. As with the cornea, nature found a way to arrange living cells such into an optically transparent structure. The purpose of the lens is to serve as a final focus of light entering the eye onto the retina and to accommodate focus for near and far images.

Dr. Juliet Gionfriddo answers this reader query about a discolored sclera.

What's causing this dog's increased intraocular pressure?

What ocular disease is illuminated?

Dr. Christopher Byers helps diagnose this dog's condition.

What are the linear opacities in this dog's eye?

What is your primary rule out in this cat?

Corneal ulcers usually heal rapidly with appropriate treatment, but this Labrador developed two that were slow to heal.

What not to do when a corneal ulcer fails to heal.

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 precorneal tear film is a substantial structure both in its size and functional importance. Yet it's difficult to directly evaluate.

Proptosis of the globe.

Basic pediatric ophthalmic examination.

Veterinary ophthalmology.

Geriatric corneal diseases.

The ability to accurately perform ocular diagnostics plays a crucial role in many aspects of evaluation of the ophthalmic patient. First and foremost, take the history.

Lens opacities and position will be discussed via lots of photos. Treatment of the associated abnormalities will be discussed. However there are three main points to take home from this discussion.

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.

What condition are these ocular changes consistent with?

Most sources state that the reference range of Schirmer tear test values is 15 to 20 mm/min in most species.

Treating the primary cause is indicated in most conjunctivitis cases.

A look at how several antifungal agents and delivery vehicles affect equine keratocytes.