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.