4377. VET CASE STUDY. Perforated corneal ulcer in the 17-year-old cat.

What is a perforated corneal ulcer? A corneal ulcer is a rupture within the cornea. The cornea is the clear window in the front of the eye.

A perforated corneal ulcer usually occurs when the infection causes the cornea to thin. This may lead to a hole or rupture in the cornea, which damages the cornea and may seriously impact the cat's vision.

 

Common symptoms include: • Blurred vision • Eye pain with or without sensitivity to light • A white spot on the cornea • Constant tearing from the eye 

What causes a perforated corneal ulcer? Corneal ulcers often occur after some kind of trauma, like a scratch or cut to the cornea. This can be the result of eye surgery or being hit with an object. A scratched area on the cornea allows bacteria or fungi to enter and infect it. Viruses (namely herpes simplex or zoster) may also lead to a perforated corneal ulcer. Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may also cause this condition.

 Perforated corneal ulcers are sometimes caused by dry eye. The cat eye’s tears help to keep the surface of the eye moist and also protect it from invading germs and bacteria. When the eye is dry, it is more likely to become infected.

 

How are perforated corneal ulcers treated? 

HUMAN CASES.
Treatment for perforated corneal ulcers depends on the location, size, and cause of the damage. For small perforations, a tissue adhesive (glue) may be used to heal the hole. 

HUMAN CASES.
If the condition is non-infectious, a bandaged contact lens (BCL) can be worn to help your cornea heal. If your case is more serious, you may need to have surgery to fix the cornea and restore your vision. If the perforation is caused by an infection, your eye doctor will likely prescribe antibiotic eye drops. In addition, oral pain medications may be prescribed.

 

You and your doctor will discuss the treatment that is best for you. To prevent future corneal ulcers, it is important to wear protective eye gear, such as goggles or glasses, if there is any chance for an eye injury. Such eyewear can be worn when you are doing activities such as yard work, construction work, or playing sports. 

 

 

 

Arrow shows corneal ulcer in a 17-year-old female cat.
Watery eye suddenly seen around 17 Nov 2024. The owner suspects 
scratching of the eye as a cause. Other causes could be trauma or dry eye.
No blood work was done except for kidney disease.