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Equine Fungal Keratopathy

Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment

Fungal keratitis is an infection of the clear outer surface of the eye (the cornea) caused by a fungus..

If not treated quickly and aggressively, fungal keratitis can lead to loss of vision or even loss of the eye itself. Without a pre-existing wound or ulcer, the presence of fungi is not normally a problem for the horse. However, when a corneal ulcer is present, organisms normally on the anterior surface of the eye can result in an infection. Infection of the cornea can be devastating due to the often aggressive nature of fungi and it is likely to result in two types of lesions, an ulcer or abscess.

Symptoms

  • Teary
  • Squinting
  • Yellow Spot in cornea
  • Swollen Eye/s
  • Cloudy Eye/s
  • Redness
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Increased blinking
  • Ulcers
  • Spasms
  • Corneal vascularisation
  • Reshaped Corneal

Treatment

Therapy should eliminate of the offending organisms, promote healing of the wound, and control the anterior uveitis associated with equine fungal keratitis. Several antifungal agents are now available. Theoretically, these drugs should have activity against a wide range of fungi, be relatively non-toxic, and penetrate the cornea readily.

Prevention

Proper health maintenance, such as reducing exposure to dirty bedding, insects and livestock can help.

Prevention of trauma to the eye, and reducing environmental triggers can prevent episodes.

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