The cornea consists of a transparent structure, located in the outermost area of the eye. Corneal ulcers consist of defects in this structure and are mostly caused by traumatic events. Its prognosis is variable and depends on the depth and extent of the lesion, as well as whether or not there is a concomitant bacterial infection.
Diagnosis of corneal ulcers is achieved by performing a fluorescein test, that stains these lesions if present. Medical treatment of corneal ulcers is adapted to each case and may include administration of topical antibiotics to control bacterial infections, artificial tears to protect the corneal surface, and medications to control pain. In cases of deep ulcers, surgical reconstruction of the corneal lesion through the implantation of biological tissues may be indicated.
Corneal ulcers, or ulcerative keratitis, are one of the most common ophthalmological diseases. This occurs when the corneal epithelium is disrupted, exposing the underlying stroma.
Affected animals frequently present epiphora, blepharospasm, photophobia, conjunctival hyperemia, corneal edema and, sometimes, miosis. Causes for the development of corneal ulcers include traumatic events, eyelid changes (entropion, distichiasis, ectopic cilia), and keratoconjunctivitis sicca. It is important to identify the initial cause to prevent recurrences in the future.
Its prognosis is variable and depends on the depth and extent of the lesion, as well as whether there is a concomitant bacterial infection. Thus, superficial and stromal ulcers have a better prognosis than decemetoceles, situations in which the entire corneal stroma is absent, leaving only Descemet’s membrane and a thin layer of endothelium. These cases are urgent and must be referred to an Ophthalmologist to obtain immediate treatment, as there is an imminent risk of eye perforation.
Diagnosis of corneal ulcers is achieved by performing a fluorescein test that stains these lesions, if present.
Medical treatment of corneal ulcers is tailored to each situation and may include administration of topical and/or oral antibiotics to prevent or control bacterial infections, artificial tears to protect the surface of the cornea, and analgesics. In cases of deep ulcers and decemetoceles, surgical reconstruction of the corneal lesion is indicated through the implantation of biological tissues such as amniotic membrane, Biosis, and/or conjunctival grafts, to provide tectonic support.