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Head Anatomy Diagram |
| A) Ear Canal |
B) Brain |
| C) Trigeminal Nerve |
D) Ophthalmic Nerve |
| E) Maxillary Nerve |
F) Mandibular Nerve |
Equine Uveitis
Equine recurrent Uveitis
"moon blindness" is an inflammation of the inside of the eye.
It is associated in some cases with leptostira bacteria, it also has an
immune-meditated component. Uveitis can be sub clinical where no
outward signs are seen until the horse turns up blind in one or both eyes.
Uveitis can be very painful, and can effect one or both eyes, usually in
time both eyes are affected. Uveitis isn't contagious and studies have
shown that the condition, and blindness, does seem to be more prominent
in Appaloosas compared to other breeds.
Treatments
ERU is usually treated
with tropical corticosteroids (after your DVM has determined there are no
corneal ulcers), and tropical antibiotics. Often, Bantamine is
used systematically to help with the inflammation.
Aspirin therapy is used
in some cases between flare-ups to decrease the progression of the
disease. Uveitis usually does progress over time often to blindness
and even then can still flair up, and be painful for the horse. It
is recommended to have your horse tested.
Aside from aspirin
therapy, (ask your DVM and the veterinary ophthalmologist) there is
little that can be done to prevent ERU from reoccurring.
Recurrent Uveitis, a leading cause of blindness in horses, often
developing as a sequel to systematic leptospirosis.
Bute Bantamine and
atropine have been used in the profession for many years and is currently
being used and becoming known that these are only producing some,
temporary relief at best.
Alternative therapies such
as the use of a Guardian Mask with 95% Sunshades, have proven to help alleviate the
symptoms associated with horses suffering Uveitis. The special 95%
sunshades help occlude harmful UV rays that cause the irritation and
weeping associated with this disease. (refer to the
Testimonials page to read about other horse owners that have experienced
cases of Uveitis in their horses. Also refer to the FAQ page for
frequently asked questions)
There is a special
supplement made by Advanced Biological Concepts in the form of a feed
named Master Jack. Horse owners have experienced positive results in
the aid of horses suffering Uveitis.
Additional Information
The bacterial organism
leptospira is associated with some cases of reoccurring equine uveitis
( moon blindness ). Blood tests, cultures etc. can be done the cause of
ERU is not always identifiable. There is also an immune-mediated
component to the disease.
Leptospira can cause of
abortion in mares, and despite extensive clinical research, the etiology
of equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is still unknown.
Equine reoccurring
uveitis, is an important ocular disease and the most common cause of
blindness in horses and mules world wide.
Ocular Emergencies
Ocular emergencies
include, any condition which threatens the integrity of the globe or
vision. Etiologies include trauma, burns, infections, uveitis,
corneal ulceration, optic neuritis, central blindness, and the uncommon
case of equine glaucoma, early cataracts, cancer, and headshaking.
An accurate diagnosis is
critical for appropriate treatment for these problems. The
prognosis, may still be poor or grave with appropriate diagnosis, however
aggressive treatment is the only chance these eyes have for vision.
Frequent
reevaluations are also an important part of treating emergencies because
additional problems can become evident over time which will also need
treatment. Most ocular and orbital injuries or acute
ocular inflammation in horses result in similar signs of adnexal swelling.
Photo by Jodi
Allen
Symptoms
In cases of uveitis
there will be a blue or white cloudiness and often a light or heavy
discharge from the eye.
Data gathered from various sources
including horse owners, veterinarians, and Guardian Mask.
Always
remember to seek the advice of your Veterinarian before treatment.
