Entropion - Donkey

Signalment

Entropion (Image courtesy of The Donkey Sanctuary)

Entropion is commonly found in old donkeys as a result of enophthalmos. In a new-born foal, congenital entropion will cause ocular irritation within days.

Diagnosis

• Close examination is needed to see if the inversion of the eyelid is causing the eyelashes to traumatise the cornea
• Fluorescein staining is essential to check for corneal ulceration

Treatment

• Most cases can be resolved by simply everting the eyelid, possibly on repeated occasions
• If manual eversion fails, mechanical eversion can be achieved by injecting saline subcutaneously.
• Temporary placement of 3/0 silk in a vertical mattress suture can be effective
• Severe cases may need surgical correction

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

EYELID DISEASES - DONKEY

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