Page 989 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 21.12 Inflamed conjunctiva
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made on the clinical signs. If the horse is obviously suffering from a
respiratory virus, then that is likely to be the cause. In other cases, the conjunctival sac is
thoroughly explored to rule out the presence of a tumour or foreign body. Swabs may be
taken for bacterial culture and sensitivity. Scrapings or biopsies may be taken for
examination of the cells and tissues where considered necessary. A coloured dye is often used
to exclude the possibility of a corneal injury.
Treatment
The treatment depends on the cause of the conjunctivitis.
Viral infections tend to resolve spontaneously as the horse recovers from the virus.
Bacterial infections require topical antibiotics several times a day.
