Introduction

Donkeys are less prone to trauma than horses due to their stoical nature and leisure uses, but their eyes are equally prominent and the cornea is usually involved.

Clinical Signs

The stages of damage progress from endothelial damage to anterior uveitis, lens luxation and retinal detachment.

Presenting signs are:

  • Photophobia
  • Blepharospasm
  • Epiphora
  • Corneal oedema
  • Possible iris prolapse

Diagnosis

These signs are seen with many ocular diseases, so history and thorough examination is vital as treatment should be prompt.

Treatment

A ruptured globe requires surgical intervention and a lens luxation usually results in enucleation due to secondary glaucoma. Aggressive NSAID therapy and atropine are needed for the associated anterior uveitis.

Literature Search

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Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).


Corneal trauma in donkeys or horses publications

References

  • Grove, V. (2008) Conditions of the eye In Svendsen, E.D., Duncan, J. and Hadrill, D. (2008) The Professional Handbook of the Donkey, 4th edition, Whittet Books, Chapter 11


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CONJUNCTIVA AND CORNEA DISEASES - DONKEY


This section was sponsored and content provided by THE DONKEY SANCTUARY