Difference between revisions of "Snake Retained Spectacles"
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The most common ocular problem of snakes is retained spectacles and is usually associated with dysecdysis. Temporary blindness can result from the serial retention of spectacles and permanent blindness may result from secondary infection. | The most common ocular problem of snakes is retained spectacles and is usually associated with dysecdysis. Temporary blindness can result from the serial retention of spectacles and permanent blindness may result from secondary infection. | ||
==Examination== | ==Examination== | ||
Revision as of 12:38, 18 May 2010
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The most common ocular problem of snakes is retained spectacles and is usually associated with dysecdysis. Temporary blindness can result from the serial retention of spectacles and permanent blindness may result from secondary infection.
Examination
Disease of the spectacle needs to be differentiated from the normal changes that occur prior to ecdysis. Here the spectacle becomes opaque then clear immediately prior to shedding. Retained spectacles result in a raised hardened mass over the spectacle.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of retained spectacles is based on physical examination. Husbandry evaluation may indicate poor environmental conditions, specifically inappropriate humidity.
Therapy
The cornea underling the spectacle is very delicate and attempts to wrench off the retained spectacle with forceps have a high success rate of damaging the cornea. Prior to any attempts at removing the spectacle the snake should be kept in a high humidity environment for a minimum of 24 hours. During this time artificial tears should be applied several times. This may soften the retained spectacle and allow their removal. Soaking prior to manipulation may further soften the spectacles. The next step is using a moistened cotton-tipped applicator to gently rub from the lateral edges of the retained spectacle inwards. In the majority of cases it will be shed. If not the procedure of softening can be repeated. In some cases it is necessary to wait until the next shed.
Prevention
Prevention of retained spectacles is related to general skin health. Poor husbandry, especially low humidity, leads to dysecdysis.
Dealing with retained spectacles
The treatment of retained spectacles should be specifically aimed at relieving the ocular problem but also directed towards any dysecdysis. The principles of treatment for dysecdysis are the same whether or not retained spectacles are present.