Page 979 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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secondary infection by bacteria and fungi which can cause the development of deep, non-
healing ulcers or abscesses (Figures 21.4a and b). Inflammation of the cornea is known as
VetBooks.ir keratitis. It can be caused by direct injury, chemical irritants, bacterial, fungal or viral
infection.
Figures 21.4a and b a) corneal ulcer; b) corneal abscess: a green dye has been applied to the eye
Clinical signs
The clinical signs will include some of the following.
• Pain. The horse often keeps its eyelids tightly closed (Figure 21.5). This is known as
blepharospasm.
• Photophobia. The horse squints and avoids bright light, being much more comfortable in
a darkened environment.
• Profuse tear production. If secondary bacterial infection develops, the discharge becomes
purulent.
• Cloudy, grey-white areas of oedema in the cornea (Figure 21.6).
• Irregularities on the normally smooth corneal surface. These can be small superficial
lesions or more serious, deep ulcers (Figure 21.7).
• Foreign bodies embedded in the cornea.
• Blood vessels growing in from the corneal margin.
• The conjunctiva may be inflamed.
