Conjunctivitis in a dog: how to treat, symptoms, treatment. Follicular Conjunctivitis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Follicular conjunctivitis- a disease that develops as a result of inflammation of the conjunctiva and lymphatic follicles located on the third eyelid. This inflammation is chronic and wears non-infectious character. Most often, it is associated with a reduced resistance of the body to negative factors. The condition can be aggravated if the pet is kept in unsanitary conditions. Also, smoky, dusty air, injuries, eye contact with foreign bodies, and contact with allergens can also worsen the condition.

Follicular conjunctivitis is more common in cats. This is a serious eye disease that requires qualified treatment.

Diagnosis and treatment of follicular conjunctivitis

At the diagnostic stage, the veterinarian-ophthalmologist identifies the causes that provoked the onset of the disease. These can be both external and internal factors. In fact, the treatment is to eliminate these factors, but this can take a long time. In order to quickly alleviate the condition of the cat, the following therapy is used.

1. Before the procedure, the area of ​​the affected eye is anesthetized to the animal (it is better not to use novocaine, since it is poorly absorbed by the mucous membranes).
2. The follicles are cauterized with a 10% solution of silver nitrate. The procedure is repeated every 4 days.

It is better if cauterization is performed by a veterinarian. The fact is that silver nitrate can cause burns to the cornea and sclera. Therefore, in the process of cauterization, the cat's head must be securely fixed, and treatment should be carried out only directly on the third eyelid. After cauterization, the conjunctiva must be washed to prevent contact of the drug with the eyeball.

Between cauterization, you can additionally use antiseptic ointments, which will help relieve inflammation and eliminate the risk of infection.

Also, a curettage procedure can be used for treatment, in which inflamed follicles are removed from the surface of the third eyelid after cauterization. To speed up the recovery of the cat, special medical films for the eyes are also used.

Follicular conjunctivitis is not treated with surgical interventions, as they carry the risk of complications, as a result of which the third eyelid may be deformed. Also, you should not agree to the complete removal of the inflamed third eyelid, since the result of such an operation can be the development of a serious pathology of the eye (retraction of the eyeball, keratitis, torsion of the eyelid, perforation of the cornea).

Specialists of the Oculus Veterinary Ophthalmology Center treat follicular conjunctivitis in cats. Our veterinary ophthalmologists will carry out diagnostics, as well as all necessary medical measures in order to alleviate the condition of your pet as quickly as possible.

Follicular conjunctivitis is a chronic non-infectious inflammation of the conjunctiva and lymphatic follicles, which are located on the third eyelid, with its inside. With the disease, follicles appear in the lower half of the conjunctival sac. This disease can develop against the background of an age-related condition of the adenoid tissue, called folliculosis.

Etiology of follicular conjunctivitis

The development of the disease occurs at the moment when the conjunctiva of the third eyelid is irritated various substances, in the process of poisoning with various infections, impaired cellular metabolism, exposure to sunlight or plant pollen. Most often, the follicular form occurs with adenoviral conjunctivitis, especially against the background of ongoing colds. This form of conjunctivitis is characterized by a contagious infectious nature, and the pathogens are adenoviruses. various types. Outbreaks of the acute form of the disease occur in spring or autumn, and mainly in places large cluster children. Infection occurs by airborne droplets - through coughing and sneezing, and sometimes due to the pathogen entering directly onto the mucous membrane.

Symptoms of the disease

Initial symptoms of the disease:

Headache; Runny nose; Weakness; Sore throat; Cough; Chills; Temperature rise.

The mucous membrane of the eye becomes inflamed and conjunctivitis develops. By the way, children, compared with adults, are much easier to tolerate the disease. The cornea of ​​the eye is extremely rarely involved in the pathological process, the overall visual acuity does not decrease. Incubation period takes about 8 days.

In the clinical picture of the disease, in addition to the appearance of follicles, infiltration and looseness of the conjunctiva are noted. The secreted pus, during the night, glues the eyelids. Sometimes this disease is mistaken for trachoma. Although follicular conjunctivitis differs from trachoma in that it does not leave cicatricial changes in the conjunctiva and does not affect the cornea.

At the beginning of the disease, a pronounced nasopharyngitis appears, which proceeds with an increase in temperature. Conjunctivitis begins in one eye, after a while it passes to the other eye. The eyelids become swollen, reddening of the mucous membrane occurs. Mucous discharge appears, there is an increase in regional lymph nodes.

Adenovirus conjunctivitis can occur in three forms:

At catarrhal form, inflammation is slightly expressed, the discharge appears in a small amount, slight redness. The duration of the disease takes a week, with mild form currents. With a membranous form, almost 25% of cases appear adenovirus conjunctivitis. Thin, easily removable films of a gray-white hue appear on the mucous membrane of the eye. Sometimes they can be tightly soldered to the surface of the conjunctiva and, due to their removal, exposed bleeding areas appear. With these manifestations, an examination for diphtheria is required. After the disappearance of the films, no traces remain, except in some cases when minor scars may remain. In the follicular form, the mucous membrane is covered with vesicles, which can be different size. The consequence of adenoviral conjunctivitis can be dry eye syndrome. which is formed due to a violation in the function of creating tear fluid. The consequences of the disease of the follicular form are not severe, but the help of a doctor is necessary, especially when the disease occurs in children. Urgent preventive measures to prevent rapid outbreaks of conjunctivitis in groups of adults and children.

Treatment of the disease

Early intensive treatment is also considered as carrying out anti-epidemic measures. The diagnosis of this disease is made by an ophthalmologist after a routine examination. Along with this, it is assigned necessary treatment. It is better not to engage in self-treatment for this disease, as this can lead to grave consequences, up to the onset of complete blindness, since the type of conjunctivitis cannot be determined without the participation of a doctor.

Curettage of inflamed follicles is also effective. The palpebral fissure is anesthetized and disinfected, then the eyelid is turned outward and the inflamed follicles are scraped off. Then, within a week, antiseptic ointments or eye films with a therapeutic effect are applied. Surgical removal of inflamed follicles can lead to complications, such as third eyelid deformity. The third eyelid is by no means removed, as the eyelid may roll over and the eyeball may retract. Keratitis, ulceration and perforation of the cornea may begin. Follicular conjunctivitis treatment only medicines is ineffective.

Follicular conjunctivitis

Follicular conjunctivitis is feature viral infection eye. Is not individual disease, not an independent type of conjunctivitis, but symptomatic manifestation some pathological processes. Follicles are small oval-shaped hollow formations that occur on the conjunctiva during inflammation caused by adenoviruses.

Causes

Follicles appear on the conjunctiva various reasons, but their occurrence is most characteristic when the eyes are affected by adenovirus infection. Therefore, we can talk about follicular conjunctivitis as one of the forms of manifestation viral inflammation conjunctiva.

Before the formation of follicles during adenovirus infection, the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, the temperature rises. For childhood, an increase in lymph nodes, especially the anterior ones, is characteristic.

Symptoms

Other than prior involvement of the respiratory organs and nodules on the conjunctiva and inner eyelids, follicular conjunctivitis is not very different from any other form.

The disease begins with a slight pain and itching in the corner of the eye, severe conjunctival hyperemia and foreign body sensation in the eye. Then inflammation of the conjunctiva develops, swelling of the eyelids is sometimes noted, the patient may feel heaviness when opening the eye.

Increased photosensitivity may be associated. After sleep, a scanty non-purulent discharge may appear in the corners of the eyes or in the conjunctival sac.

Most often, the lesion begins with one eye, gradually moving to the second. It is epidemiological in nature: there is a high probability of infection of a healthy person through contact and household contact. Very often, when the disease develops in one of the family members (or in a close team, for example, kindergarten or schools), gradually all contacts fall ill with the same.

Treatment

Apply antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, locally - eye drops with antiseptic action. In cases of complications, the conjunctival sac is washed with a solution of potassium permanganate or furacilin. After the treatment is completed, the follicles should disappear. If this does not happen, a cauterization procedure is performed.

The development of follicles on the conjunctiva is possible as a result of chronic inflammation caused by the irritating effect of one or more factors:

• dust (for example, in paper production);
• allergen (honey, wool, citrus, etc.).

In this case, the treatment is symptomatic. need to be eliminated annoying factor. Apply eye drops with a moisturizing effect. The use of antihistamines has been shown.

Follicular conjunctivitis is a type of inflammation of the conjunctiva. The disease affects people of all age categories, especially the children's population. Pathological process tend to affect connective tissue eyes. The disease is manifested by a characteristic symptom complex. Treatment requires a responsible approach, since neglected forms provoke damage to the deep layers of the visual organs, reduce the quality of vision.

Etiology, course features

Another name for follicular conjunctivitis is hyperpapillary conjunctivitis. The disease in the course of its course provokes morphological changes in the tissues of the eye organs, in particular the mucous membrane (conjunctiva). There is a "loosening" of the conjunctiva. Miniature compacted elevations begin to form on it, usually rounded in shape. Diameter pathological formations reaches 1-2 mm. This is an accumulation of lymphocyte cells that the body produces in response to an infection and sends to the site of inflammation. Seals pass without a trace after treatment as they recover (with the exception of trachoma).

chief causative factor there is a violation occurring in the system of "resistance" of a person. The disease is aggravated by a number of factors (dust, smoke, small foreign objects falling on the mucosa).

Often, the follicular form becomes a consequence (complication) of untreated, severe catarrhal conjunctivitis, more often viral and allergic.

It is manifested by inflammation of the lymphatic follicles. Distinguish the course of the disease acute, subacute, chronic.

Follicular conjunctivitis can be provoked by:

• impact different nature toxins;
• the introduction of an infectious provocateur ( adenovirus infection, trachoma, herpes virus);
• pathology of cellular metabolism;
• influence of allergens, some eye drops, intense solar radiation.

The reason for the development of this type of eye disease may be prolonged exposure to the mucous membrane of the aggressive components of solutions intended for storing contact eye lenses. An unscrupulous manufacturer uses certain types of preservatives and disinfectants that are prohibited for use in ophthalmic practice. negative lasting impact such solutions leads to the development of eye disease.

Chronic follicular conjunctivitis

Causes chronic process there are chemical, physical factors that affect the mucous membrane of the eyes on permanent basis. These can be unfavorable conditions in production - flour mills, sawmills, woodworking organizations, chemical plants, factories for the production of bricks, cement, etc. Chronic helminthiasis, allergies, anemia, pathologies of the nasopharynx, nasal sinuses predispose to eye disease.

Chronic conjunctivitis occurs in parallel with blepharitis, dacryocystitis, torsion of the eyelids. Treatment chronic form, as well as acute, begins with the elimination of its immediate cause, predisposing factors to the disease.

Allergic hyperpapillary conjunctivitis

plant pollen, house dust, animal hair, bird feathers, medicines can provoke the occurrence allergic inflammation mucous membrane of the eyes. It can be seasonal or last all year round. Spring catarrh is considered the most severe form, associated with a deterioration in the general condition, bronchial asthma, eczema.

Hyperpapillary conjunctivitis is a type of allergic conjunctivitis that results from the persistent presence of a foreign body in the eye that is in close contact with the mucous membrane. It can be provoked by prolonged, continuous wearing of contact - soft or hard - lenses, in the presence of protruding postoperative sutures on different parts eyes (for ophthalmic surgical intervention in history).

The diagnosis - follicular conjunctivitis - is put forward on the basis of a distinctive clinical picture and poll:

• interaction with an allergen;
• seasonality;
• change in general condition;
• tearing or dryness;
• "grains of sand" in the eyes, etc.

Differentiate from bacterial and viral conjunctivitis. hallmark the presence of eosinophils and basophils in the cytogram is considered. Treatment involves the appointment antihistamines, local treatment special anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic drops. A prerequisite there is an elimination of the allergen provocateur.

Prevention is seasonal desensitization medications, it is required to avoid, if possible, contact with an allergenic factor. It is necessary to periodically stop wearing lenses, replacing them with glasses.

Follicular keratoconjunctivitis

You can get infected in in public places, in the hospital, at home from a sick relative. The incubation period is up to 10 days. The clinic of viral keratoconjunctivitis is quite characteristic. The disease always begins violently: pronounced mucosal edema, hyperemia of the eyelids, reddening of the folds, the surface of the eyeball. In the zone of the lower transitional fold, pink-grayish follicles appear already in the first few days.

After about five days, dotted infiltrates appear, vesicles with fluid on the stratum corneum (usually in the central optical region). Morphological changes are manifested by such symptoms as lacrimation, blepharospasm. The number of inflamed follicles decreases gradually, somewhere after the second week of the course. Impaired vision usually returns.

The infection is transmitted through the air, contact, alimentary (through food). Treatment is prescribed by a doctor. The course of the disease can be long - up to two months, even if treatment is present.

Trachoma

The incubation period lasts approximately two weeks. The infection spreads indirectly (through miscellaneous items that are used at the same time different people, including those who are ill), in violation of hygiene, in disadvantaged social categories of the population. The disease proceeds with reddening of the mucosa, mucopurulent discharge, conjunctival thickening, and a feeling of dustiness in the eyes. Eyelids stick together from profuse discharge during sleep. Visible, gray, cloudy follicles form in the conjunctiva. The surface of the mucosa is uneven, bumpy, purple.

When small vessels are involved in the process, pannus appears:

• thin - slight infiltration;
• vascular - a significant number of affected vessels penetrate the cloudy cornea;
• fleshy - pronounced infiltration corneal layer, granulations are present;
• sarcomatous - the follicles disintegrate, necrotic with the formation of scars.

With severe tissue destruction, dry eye syndrome may occur. There are 4 clinical stages of trachoma according to the severity of morphological changes. The disease is dangerous for its consequences (loss of visual ability). Treatment should be under the supervision of a doctor, it is impossible to start the disease.

Treatment includes antibiotics, topical application ointments, drops. Surgery, surgical restoration (transplantation) of tissues may be required.

Diagnosis of follicular conjunctivitis

Before prescribing treatment, the doctor conducts a thorough visual examination of the mucous membrane of the affected eyes. Assign microscopic examination of secretions. The appearance of inflamed follicles is considered the most accurate sign of this form of the disease. They never form on healthy tissues.

Spend:

• cytological diagnosis of scrapings;
• bacteriological culture of secreted eye secretion;
• determine the titer of antibodies to pathogens;
• identify the allergen.

The histological nature of such formations is identical in all forms of follicular conjunctivitis. Only with trachoma, degenerative processes are distinguished by the formation of permanent scars.

It is necessary to distinguish follicles from papillae similar to them. Papillae are hyperplastic capillaries that grow in bundles into the epithelial layer of the mucous membrane of the eye.

Examination of the eyes with a slit lamp reveals roughness, tuberosity of the conjunctiva caused by hypertrophied papillae and follicles.

Principles of therapy

Timely treatment prevents the development severe complications. Self-medication can lead to serious problems with human vision afterwards. It is necessary to identify and eliminate the internal etiological (causal) factor as soon as possible.

Are used following methods therapy:

1. The doctor may prescribe, with a pronounced course, cauterization of inflamed follicles with special solutions, local anesthesia is preliminarily performed. They cauterize about once every five days, with extreme caution - only experienced doctor. A side effect of manipulation can be chemical burn cornea, sclera. The eyelid is turned outward, the damaged surface is treated with a sterile cotton swab. Then the mucosa is treated with a solution of sodium chloride. In parallel, various antiseptic ointments are prescribed for laying in the eyes.
2. Curettage of damaged follicles is applied. The palpebral fissure is anesthetized, qualitatively disinfected. The eyelid is carefully turned away, with the help of a special tool, pathological nodules are scraped out. After the intervention, you need to use antibacterial ointments, prescribed by a doctor, films. Complications of manipulation: keratitis, perforation of the cornea, ulceration of the mucosa, deformity of the eyelid.

All of the above invasive surgical interventions are carried out exclusively in a hospital hospital, using sterile instruments designed strictly for such purposes.

Follicular conjunctivitis in dogs. Comparison of surgical and medical methods of treatment

The significance of the organ of vision for the animal organism is enormous, since it is in continuous connection with the surrounding external environment, representing an inseparable unity with it.

Diseases that lead to impaired visual function make the animal defenseless, not adapted to the struggle for existence.

Such diseases are accompanied by depletion of animals and a decrease in productivity. Animals with pathology of the eyes and their accessory organs become economically unprofitable for owners and farms, because they require special care and can cause some extreme, even tragic situations.

Inflammatory diseases of the conjunctiva and cornea rank first in terms of frequency of visits to a veterinary ophthalmologist, which is more than half of all eye pathology.

In the conjunctival sac with completely normal conditions various microorganisms are in a latent state, including pyogenic ones, since the eye is open system communicating with the external environment. At the slightest violation of the “status quo”, the aggressiveness of microorganisms increases, and they can become direct causative agents of the inflammatory process.

Follicular conjunctivitis - chronic inflammation conjunctiva, in which lymphatic follicles are affected on the inner surface of the third eyelid, less often on the outside and lower fornix of the conjunctiva.

It is the most common form of conjunctivitis in young dogs and less commonly in cats.

The complexity of the pathogenesis of follicular conjunctivitis, based on inflammation of the lymphatic follicles, which leads to their hyperplasia, as well as the greater possibility of the process moving into adenoma of the third eyelid, also determine the complexity of the treatment of this disease.

The long course of the disease leads to pathological changes tissues of the conjunctiva, the addition of toxic-allergic and autoimmune components, which aggravates the course of the process and greatly complicates and delays the treatment.

Currently, many drugs and methods of treatment of follicular conjunctivitis have been proposed, which suggests surgical intervention and/or the use of new treatment regimens.

We were tasked with developing a scheme conservative treatment follicular conjunctivitis in dogs, as well as to compare the effectiveness of surgical and conservative methods treatment of follicular conjunctivitis.

Material and research methods. The objects for the study were sick dogs of various breeds, age with pathology of the organ of vision and adjacent tissues, admitted to the clinic of the Department of Surgery and Obstetrics of the Law Firm "KATU" NAU, as well as the clinic of Simferopol.

All sick animals were subjected to a general clinical examination with the determination of body temperature, pulse rate and respiratory movements. In dogs with clinical signs of damage to the visual analyzer, the eye and surrounding tissues were examined and palpated. Before examination, the conjunctival sac was irrigated with a 0.002% solution of furacillin, which has an antimicrobial effect, the surface of the eye was treated with a 2% solution of lidocaine, and the inner surface of the third eyelid was turned outward using anatomical tweezers in order to detect inflamed, enlarged lymphatic follicles.

The diagnosis of follicular conjunctivitis was made with the following clinical signs: edema of the third eyelid, chemosis, the presence of enlarged lymphatic follicles from the inside of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid (from the side of the eyeball), the outflow of mucous or mucous purulent exudate from the inner corner of the eye, soreness of the eyelids, the presence of crusts of dried exudate on their surface, inflammation of the cornea, superficial (conjunctival) or pericorneal injection of vessels. In addition to the above signs, photophobia, blepharospasm, lacrimation, absence of exudate, and itching were noted.

We selected 15 dogs for the study. different ages, sex, breed with approximately the same clinical signs of follicular conjunctivitis. These animals were divided into two groups. The control group - 8 animals - was treated according to the following scheme:

1. Instillations of a 30% solution of sodium sulfacyl (albucid) were carried out, 3-4 drops 3 times a day. It belongs to the drugs of the sulfanilamide group, instillations were carried out in order to prevent the spread of the inflammatory process to other parts of the eye and to treat purulent inflammation of the conjunctiva.

2. Dexamethasone solution 0.1% (eye drops) was used 2 times a day, 2–3 drops. The drug belongs to the group of glucocorticoids, has a local anti-inflammatory, antiergic, antibacterial action. Locally reduces pain, photophobia, lacrimation, burning sensation.

3. 1% eye tetracycline ointment was placed in the conjunctival sac, it has a bacteriostatic effect, is effective in combating G- and G+ bacteria, as well as viruses and fungi.

4. Hydrocortisone 0.5% eye ointment was also placed in the conjunctival sac. The drug belongs to the group of glucocorticosteroids, has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, decongestant and itching action.

5. Ribotan was used intramuscularly 1 time in 5 days in an amount of 1 ml. The drug has a wide range of biological activity: it accelerates regeneration processes, stimulates natural resistance factors, phagocytic activity of macrophages and neutrophils.

The second (experimental) group was also prescribed a 30% solution of sodium sulfacyl, 0.1% solution of dexamethasone, tetracycline, hydrocortisone ointment and ribotan according to the above scheme, and also performed scarification of the lymphatic follicles with a Volkmann spoon. The goal is to destroy the histohematic barrier of lymphatic follicles that prevent the penetration of drugs into the body.

Scarification was performed as follows: the animals were injected with xylazine at a dose of 1–2 mg per 1 kg of live weight (dosage according to active substance), performing round anesthesia to ensure a calm environment during the curettage. The conjunctival sac was irrigated with a 0.002% solution of furacillin in order to remove exudate and pathogenic microflora accumulated on the surface of the conjunctiva. Animals were fixed in the lateral lying position. A 2% solution of lidocaine was instilled on the surface of the eye, after 3–5 minutes the third eyelid was grasped with anatomical tweezers, it was turned outward, and the inner surface of the third eyelid was healed with a Volkmann spoon. When bleeding occurs, apply to the third eyelid cotton swab moistened with a solution of adrenaline at a concentration of 1:1000.

Animals were observed on days 3, 7, 14, 17, 20 and 25 after the start of treatment.

The effectiveness of treatment was assessed by the change or disappearance of clinical signs.

Results of own researches. For the period 2006–2008 in the clinic of the Department of Surgery and Obstetrics of the Law Firm "KATU" NAU, as well as clinics in Simferopol, 2235 dogs with diseases were admitted non-infectious nature, of which 257 animals had eye diseases, which accounted for 11.5% of total number. The most common disease was conjunctivitis in 125 animals - 48.6%. The second place was taken by keratitis - 44 dogs - 17.0%. We recorded 15 animals (5.8%) with follicular conjunctivitis. Based on general clinical studies, it was found that follicular conjunctivitis is more often a consequence of chronic conjunctivitis.

When examining the eye area, the following clinical signs were found: an increase in the size of the third eyelid in 12 (80%) dogs, on its inner surface, the presence of inflamed, enlarged lymphatic follicles was noted in all animals (100%), the outflow of mucous exudate from the internal corner of the eye in 8 (53.3%), mucopurulent - in 6 (40%) dogs. Blepharospasm, photophobia, lacrimation, conjunctival hyperemia were observed in 8 (53.3%) animals.

For the experiment, we were able to select dogs of the same age and breed. Dogs of the first (control) group in the amount of 8 animals, whose age ranged from 1 to 5 years, were treated according to the above scheme.

Common signs of follicular conjunctivitis in dogs of this group were: an increase in the volume of the third eyelid, on its inner surface the presence of enlarged lymphatic follicles, outflow of mucous or mucopurulent exudate, episcleral and pericorneal injection of blood vessels, clouding of the cornea in the medial corner of the gray-smoky eye color, hyperemia of the conjunctiva of the eyelids, moderately pronounced blepharospasm, mild soreness in the eye area, the presence of crusts of dried exudate on the surface of the eyelids.

The general condition of the animals was satisfactory, the appetite was preserved, the animals actively ate food, signs common disease did not note. Body temperature was 38.8±0.5°C, pulse - 66.4±3.8 beats/min, respiration - 23.2±3.2 resp. dv/min.

On the 3rd day, a slight increase was observed inflammatory response, which was manifested by an increase in the number of outflows from the inner corner of the eye of a mucous nature, soreness, swelling of the third eyelid, an increase in the size of the lymphatic follicles. The general condition is satisfactory, body temperature is 38.2±0.4°C, pulse is 72.4±4.2 beats/min, respiration is 24±0.2 resp. dv/min.

On the 7th day, a decrease in photophobia, lacrimation, blepharospasm was less pronounced. On the inner surface of the third eyelid, the presence of enlarged lymphatic follicles of pink, rose-red color was observed. Clouding of the cornea is less pronounced.

On the 10th day, it was noted that soreness, swelling of the conjunctiva decreased, the mucopurulent exudate became more transparent. In 2 dogs with corneal inflammation, corneal opacity decreased. The body temperature of the animals was within 38.4±0.4°C, pulse 60.2±4.3 beats/min, respiration 24±0.4 resp. dv/min.

On the 14th day after the start of treatment, a decrease in hyperemia, soreness of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid, a decrease in its volume was established. Episcleral, pericorneal injection of vessels is weakly expressed. General clinical signs were within the normal range.

On the 17th day, it was recorded that photophobia, blepharospasm, and lacrimation resumed in one dog. The absence of such signs was found in 6 dogs, a slight discharge of mucous exudate was noted in 7 animals. Complete recovery of the conjunctiva in one dog.

On the 20th day, the complete disappearance of clinical signs characteristic of follicular conjunctivitis in 5 dogs was established. In one animal, the third eyelid greatly increased in volume, acquired a pink color, blepharospasm, photophobia, profuse flow mucous exudate. Body temperature was 38.6±0.4°C, pulse 64.5±5.2 beats/min, respiration 22.4±4.2 resp. dv/min.

On the 25th day after the start of treatment, it was noted that full recovery conjunctiva of the third eyelid, the disappearance of lymphatic follicles occurred in 6 dogs (75%). In one animal, blepharospasm, photophobia, copious excretion mucous exudate from the inner corner of the eye, an increase in the volume of the third eyelid, its hyperemia, soreness, on the inner surface the presence of enlarged pink lymph follicles. In one dog, there was a small amount of mucous exudate from the corner of the eye, the third eyelid was slightly enlarged in size, there were lymph follicles on the inner surface. yellowish color, on the cornea there are mild signs of clouding of a smoky color.

In the second (experimental) group, which included 7 dogs with follicular conjunctivitis, follicle curettage was additionally applied with a Volkmann spoon according to the method described above.

During the initial examination of this group of animals, it was noted that the general condition of 6 dogs was satisfactory, the coat was smooth, shiny, the appetite was preserved, no signs of a general disease were revealed. The body temperature of the animals of the experimental group was 38.4±0.6°C, pulse 65.6±4.2 beats/min, respiration 18.4±3.6 resp. dv/min.

When examining the eyes of all animals, an increase in the volume of the third eyelid was established, on its inner surface the presence of inflamed, enlarged pink-red lymphatic follicles. Marked expiration of mucous, mucopurulent exudate from the inner corner of the eye, episcleral and pericorneal injection of blood vessels in two dogs, corneal clouding in 3. All animals expressed moderate blepharospasm, photophobia.

On the 3rd day after the start of treatment, it was found that the signs of inflammation intensified, namely: severe blepharospasm, photophobia, copious exudate with blood, swelling of the eyelids, swelling of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid, its hyperemia, pain were observed. Episcleral vascular injection became more pronounced compared to the initial examination. Body temperature was within 38.6±0.4°C, pulse 60.5±4.4 beats/min, respiration 22.5±0.4 resp. dv/min.

On day 7, five dogs showed a decrease in signs of inflammation in the eye area. Decreased manifestation of blepharospasm, photophobia. Isolation of exudate of a mucous nature and with an admixture of blood was noted in five animals. A decrease in edema, hyperemia, and soreness of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was noted in 4 patients. Body temperature was within 38.4±0.2°C, pulse 60.5±4.2 beats/min, respiration 21.2±0.4 resp. dv/min.

On the 10th day, a decrease in photophobia, blepharospasm was noted in all animals, a decrease in the release of mucous exudate in 5 animals. Reduction of edema, hyperemia, soreness of the third eyelid in 6 animals. No episcleral vascular injection in 2 dogs, no corneal opacity in one. The general condition is satisfactory, the appetite is preserved.

On the 14th day, the absence of photophobia, blepharospasm, exudate discharge in 4 dogs was revealed, and a complete recovery of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was noted. In 2 animals there was no corneal opacification, in one it was mild. A decrease in edema, soreness, hyperemia of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was noted in 3 dogs. General clinical signs were within the normal range.

On the 17th day, a complete recovery of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was observed, the absence of signs of inflammation of the conjunctiva in six animals (85.7%). In one dog, hyperemia of the conjunctiva of the third eyelid was noted, a slight discharge of mucous exudate from the inner corner of the eye. The general condition of all animals was satisfactory. Body temperature 38.2±0.4°C, pulse within 60.2±4.2 beats/min, respiration 20.6±0.4 resp. dv/min.

Thus, we can conclude that the use of curettage of lymphatic follicles on the inner surface of the third eyelid in complex treatment of follicular conjunctivitis ensured recovery in 85.7% of dogs on the fourteenth to seventeenth day after the start of treatment, while in the control group on the twentieth to twenty-fifth day in 75% of animals.

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Follicular conjunctivitis- chronic, non-infectious inflammation of the conjunctiva and lymphatic follicles, mainly on the inner surface of the third eyelid.

Etiology. For the first time, follicular conjunctivitis was described in dogs, in which it is widespread. Some consider various irritations to be the cause of the disease, mainly of a mechanical nature (dust, smoke, etc.); experiments with artificial infection did not give positive results.

Others believe that all these causes cause first catarrhal conjunctivitis, which is subsequently complicated by inflammation of the lymphatic follicles. Often observed at the same time and inversion of the eyelids during inner corner eyes, which may also be explained by chronic catarrh of the conjunctiva.

There is an opinion that follicular conjunctivitis occurs in dogs as a consequence of distemper. Inflammation of the follicles can also be caused by damage to the hematolymphogenic pathways.

Pathogenesis and pathological changes. Histological examination reveals lymphatic follicles in a perfectly healthy conjunctiva. Especially noticeable is their accumulation on the inner surface of the third century. Their slight swelling is, in any case, a very common occurrence in dogs. As a result of irritating influences develops inflammatory process in the conjunctiva, the tissue is infiltrated by leukocytes, significant hyperemia appears. At the same time, changes occur in the follicles; their number and size gradually increase. Spreading from the transitional fold of the conjunctiva to the sclera, the nodules gradually disperse over the entire surface of the third eyelid, which eventually takes on a bumpy appearance, somewhat reminiscent of granulations. In severe cases, translucent nodules also appear on the conjunctiva of the eyelids, arranged in rows.

Clinical signs. AT early stage, without special survey third century, the disease can easily go unnoticed. The chronic catarrh developing in the beginning can proceed at very weak objective signs; only when changes appear on the part of the lymphatic follicles does it draw attention to itself. When viewed in the inner corner of the eye, more or less hyperemia of the conjunctiva and a slight accumulation of serous, serous-mucous or purulent exudate are visible; sometimes it is missing. Quite often there is a twisting of the eyelids.

The most characteristic change is found on the inner surface of the third eyelid. For examination, the eyelid is grasped with anatomical tweezers over the edge and turned inside out. Here you can see an accumulation of inflamed follicles, more often in the form of a granular bunch of bright red or dark red color, of various sizes. Suffering is often bilateral.

Forecast favorable, since the disease is curable. The treatment consists in re-cauterization of the follicles in the third eyelid with a 10% solution, and preferably with a lapis stick. The removal of the third eyelid recommended by some authors is inexpedient and even harmful (Shantyr; our own observations). After this operation, complications often occur in the form of torsion of the eyelids and even some retraction of the eyeball; by cauterization, in all cases, without exception, we achieved a complete recovery.

Burning technique. In a lying dog, an assistant opens the eyelids (sometimes a preliminary injection of 1-2% cocaine is required). The doctor, having captured the edge of the third eyelid with tweezers, turns it inside out and lightly stews it with a lapis stick along the protruding follicles. The eye is immediately rinsed with a 1% solution table salt. If the other eye is also affected, then the same manipulation is performed with it. The number of repeated cauterizations depends on the intensity of the process. In general, you have to do from 2 to 8 cauterizations, at intervals of 3-5 days.

At chronic conjunctivitis prescribe drops of zinc sulfate (0.5-1%), 2-3 times a day after a day after cauterization. For torsion of the eyelids, an appropriate operation is used

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eye that covers eyeball. This is a common occurrence in cats and dogs. Conjunctivitis is accompanied by redness of the eyes, exudate, purulent discharge, swelling and closing of the eyes, and in some cases there is a lack of lacrimal fluid. General lethargy and weakness of the dog and cat, loss of appetite.

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The reasons

Causes conjunctivitis in dogs and cats are allergic reaction dust, wool, plants, insects, smoke, drugs, eye injuries, cleaning products, fungal diseases and infectious or viral diseases.

Forms of conjunctivitis

1. Catarrhal

Lachrymation, blepharospasm, photophobia, mucosal hyperemia. From the eyes of cats and dogs, there is an outflow of mucous exudate, which accumulates in the corner of the eye and glues the eyelashes. The conjunctiva of the eye is edematous, the eyelids lose contact with the eye, the eyeball sinks inward. It occurs in acute or chronic form.

Treatment

How to treat conjunctivitis in dogs and cats will tell in a veterinary clinic, they will most likely advise various astringents and cauterizing agents, as well as drops, with a strong form of the disease, Dikain will be added. At home, you can wash your eyes with tea leaves or chamomile. In any case, you should consult with your veterinarian.

2. Purulent

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes of dogs and cats is caused by staphylococci and streptococci, as well as infectious diseases such as plague. very similar to catarrhal, only the symptoms are more pronounced and wear purulent character, can lead to blindness. Clouding of the eye is observed and swelling of the conjunctiva can reach such a size that the eye protrudes from the limits palpebral fissure and stuck for centuries. In some places, the mucous membrane is necrotic, the submucosal tissue is exposed (ulcers, erosions), in this case, there is an fusion of the eyelids with the eyeball. The disease proceeds for a long time. Purulent conjunctivitis in dogs and cats is quite common.

Treatment

At home, you can wash your eyes with tea leaves, removing purulent discharge. You should immediately contact your veterinarian, who will most likely advise rinsing the animal's eyes with a 3% solution. boric acid. After washing in the corner of the eye, smear an ointment of antibiotics and sulfonamides, which must be used often and for a long time, such as Protorgol and Collargol. Consult a veterinarian before use. You can also apply anesthetic ointments. At acute forms intramuscular injection of antibiotics sulfa drugs). With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable.

3. Follicular

Follicular conjunctivitis in dogs and cats chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye and hyperplasia (an increase in the number of structural elements of tissues) of the lymphatic follicles, which resembles a bunch of small dark red grapes on the inner surface of the third eyelid. The main inflammation occurs in this area. When blinking, the follicles injure the cornea of ​​the animal's eye, which causes discomfort. There is photophobia, redness on the conjunctiva of the eye, mucous purulent discharge, itching, swollen third eyelid, blepharospasm. This disease is seen mainly in purebred cats and dogs. Occurs with intoxication, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, allergic reactions. After the disease, relapses occur.

Treatment

The first aid that you can give at home before visiting the veterinarian is to rinse your eyes strong tea or decoction of chamomile. This will remove purulent discharge and relieve inflammation of the eye. The veterinary clinic will carry out a number of procedures, apply bactericidal agents, ointments, drops, antibiotics, solutions with novocaine, sulfonamides, corticosteroids. Nice results with novocaine blockade of the upper cervical sympathetic node. Preparations according to V.P. Filatov are especially effective.

Diagnosis should primarily be aimed at identifying primary cause since conjunctivitis is mostly a secondary disease. So it's best to make a general clinical analysis blood, virological and bacteriological research. This can be used to determine whether this disease is due to bacteria, infections, viral origin Or is it an allergic reaction to exposure? external factors such as pollen, scratch, dust and more.

Prevention

All rules for keeping cats and dogs must be observed. Balanced diet, high-quality feed, timely treatment of diseases that provoke eye diseases and timely vaccination (vaccination).

Before using any drugs, you should consult with a specialist doctor. There are contraindications.

Conjunctivitis- inflammation of the connective or mucous membrane of the eye.

The conjunctiva covers the back of the eyelids and the front of the eyeball up to the cornea. The place of transition of the conjunctiva from the eyelids to the eyeball is called the fornix of the conjunctiva, the remaining gap (with closed eyelids) is the conjunctival sac. At a large cattle in the conjunctiva of the lower eyelid is an accumulation of lymph nodes. In the conjunctiva, the epithelial layer and the connective tissue base are distinguished. The epithelium of the conjunctiva of the eyelids is stratified prismatic or mixed, contains goblet cells that secrete mucus. The epithelium of the sclera without sharp boundaries passes into the epithelium of the cornea. The conjunctiva (some of its parts) contain glands that produce a small amount of fluid that moisturizes the surface of the eye. The conjunctiva is richly supplied with blood vessels and sensory nerves.

Conjunctivitis in cattle can be an independent disease, but is most often a symptom of other diseases.

In its course, conjunctivitis can be acute or chronic. By the nature of the inflammatory exudate: catarrhal, purulent, croupous, diphtheritic. According to the depth of the conjunctival lesion: parenchymal, follicular.

Etiology. Conjunctivitis in cattle occurs as a result of exposure to mechanical, physical, chemical, infectious and parasitic diseases, the transition of the inflammatory process from neighboring tissues and organs.

It is customary to attribute mechanical factors leading to the development of conjunctivitis in cattle - trauma to the conjunctiva by foreign bodies, trauma to the eyelids and the conjunctiva itself with eyelashes, not closing the eyelids, etc.

The chemical factors that cause conjunctivitis in cattle are usually attributed to a large amount of ammonia in the barnyards, due to malfunctioning of the ventilation system, smoke, and improper use of drugs by veterinarians and livestock owners.

The physical factors leading to conjunctivitis include high temperature environment, excess solar radiation, especially in early spring.

The biological factors in the development of conjunctivitis include fungi. Which get into the eyes with poor-quality food, a variety of bacteria, as well as the microflora that constantly lives in the conjunctival sac, and causing conjunctivitis only as a result of a decrease in the resistance of the animal's body, a decrease in the content of lysozyme in the lacrimal fluid.

Inflammation of the conjunctiva can occur when inflammation passes from surrounding tissues.

clinical picture. The main sign of conjunctivitis in cattle is conjunctival hyperemia. Hyperemia occurs as a result of expansion of the superficial vessels of the conjunctiva (conjunctival injection) or deep episcleral (pericorneal injection) or both (mixed injection). Conjunctival injection for conjunctivitis is more pronounced in the area of ​​​​the conjunctiva of the eyelids and the anterior crease, and as it approaches the cornea, the redness decreases. Pericorneal injection is observed with damage to the cornea or vascular tract and is accompanied by purple, and in severe cases purple tint. It is sharply expressed around the cornea and gradually decreases towards the fornix. Mixed injection accompanies severe damage to the eye and its surrounding parts. When examining a sick animal, in addition to hyperemia, the veterinarian notes swelling, swelling and impaired transparency of the conjunctiva. In the case when the processes of exudation and infiltration are expressed, a severely ill animal opens the affected eyes with great difficulty, and a roller forms around the sclera. When conducting a clinical examination of a sick animal, a veterinarian notes from the eyes the presence of serous, serous-mucous, mucopurulent or purulent discharge. Additionally, with conjunctivitis, photophobia, itching, soreness and blepharospasm are recorded.

Acute catarrhal conjunctivitis. The surface epithelium is damaged. During a clinical examination, the veterinarian notes a moderate injection of conjunctival vessels, swelling of the conjunctiva, photophobia, and lacrimation. On palpation, the eyelids are swollen, painful, the eyelashes are glued together with exudate, we note an increase in local temperature. Acute conjunctivitis usually ends within 1-2 weeks.

Chronic catarrhal conjunctivitis. Unlike acute conjunctivitis, clinical signs in this form of conjunctivitis are smoothed out. During a clinical examination of the eyes, the veterinarian notes a slight infiltration of the conjunctiva, moderate hyperemia and dryness of the conjunctiva. From the eyes there are constant small or moderate discharge of a serous or serous-mucous nature, sometimes we note purulent, thick secretion. Palpation of the conjunctiva gives a slight soreness and local boost temperature.

With a long course of chronic catarrhal conjunctivitis, the animal may experience incomplete blepharospasm. In the event that the conjunctival sac is large in the animal, the eyelashes and the edge of the eyelids may curl.

Forecast. In acute catarrhal conjunctivitis, the prognosis is favorable. Chronic catarrhal conjunctivitis requires long-term treatment.

Treatment. Treatment must begin with the elimination of the cause of conjunctivitis. In order to reduce inflammation, sick animals are prescribed astringent and cauterizing drugs. preparations - drops zinc sulfate (0.25-2%) with 1-2% novocaine solution, drops of silver nitrate, 2-8% protargol solution., 2% sodium tetraborate solution. With severe pain, dicain is added to the drops. With hyperemia, adrenaline is used at a dilution of 1: 1000, 1 drop per 1 ml. Additionally, ointments are used to treat catarrhal conjunctivitis, novocaine blockade sympathetic cranial cervical ganglion.

Purulent conjunctivitis. In the conjunctival sac of healthy animals, microflora is always present, but due to the high resistance of the organism and antiseptic properties conjunctiva and lacrimal fluid, it does not show sufficient activity. With a decrease in the body's resistance to infectious diseases (infectious rhinotracheitis of cattle, parainfluenza - 3, malignant catarrhal fever, etc.), hypovitaminosis A, unsatisfactory conditions of detention, and sometimes during diagnostic tests tuberculosis (eye test) positive reaction in cattle we note purulent conjunctivitis.

Clinical signs. At purulent conjunctivitis veterinary specialist registers photophobia, injection of superficial blood vessels, the local temperature in the area of ​​the inflamed eye is increased. When examining the eye, the veterinarian notes swelling of the conjunctiva, the surface of the conjunctiva is covered with mucopurulent secretions. The mucous membrane is affected by necrosis in places, in the submucosal tissue we find erosion, ulcers. Sometimes the inflammatory process can go to the cornea and sclera of the eye.

Treatment. With conjunctivitis of infectious etiology, the underlying disease is treated (). The conjunctival sac is washed with an antiseptic solution of furacillin 1: 5000, ethacridine lactate 1: 1000. Then apply eye ointments. In the treatment, drops of a 5% solution of dimexide on 0.5% novocaine with the addition of gentamicin, kanamycin are used. Good healing effect renders retrobulbar novocaine blockade. In the event that there is an fusion between the eyelids and the eye, then they are dissected and cauterized with silver nitrate.

Follicular conjunctivitis. Follicular conjunctivitis in cattle usually affects both eyes. On clinical examination, the veterinarian notes slight reddening of the conjunctiva and accumulation of exudate in the inner corner of the eye. In some animals, the palpebral fissure is somewhat narrowed, and the edges of the eyelids at the outer corner of the eye are turned up. On the inner surface of the 3rd century, a cluster of bright red follicles is found. Follicular conjunctivitis in cattle occurs with.

Treatment. Treatment is carried out as in other forms of conjunctivitis, apply astringent preparations, calcium chloride, various antibacterial drugs, novocaine blockade.

Parenchymal conjunctivitis. With parenchymal conjunctivitis, the inflammatory process captures not only the conjunctiva, but also subconjunctival tissue and proceeds as a phlegmon. During a clinical examination, a veterinarian registers a pronounced edema of both eyelids and conjunctiva. At the same time, the conjunctiva protruding from the palpebral fissure is shiny, tense, dryish and bleeds easily at the slightest touch. In severe cases of the disease, necrosis of large areas of the conjunctiva may develop.

Treatment. Antibiotics are used in the treatment, retrobulbar blockade with novocaine, frequent eye rinsing with antiseptic solutions of potassium permanganate (1:5000), ethacridine (1:1000), furacillin (1;5000) and covered with a thick layer of eye ointment with an antibiotic.

Infectious keratoconjunctivitis in cattle.

Infectious keratoconjunctivitis - acute infection caused by several types of pathogens and accompanied by fever, catarrhal conjunctivitis and purulent-ulcerative keratitis.

The main causative agents of the disease are mycoplasmas, chlamydia, rickettsia and moraxella.

In addition to cattle, sheep, goats, camels, pigs and poultry are susceptible to this disease. Animals of all ages are affected, but calves and young animals from 5 months to 2 years are more susceptible.

The source of the disease are sick animals and bacteria carriers that secrete microorganisms with a secret from the conjunctiva and nasal mucus. The causative agent of the disease is transmitted by direct and indirect contact, as well as mechanically by flies. As a result of airborne infection, large groups of animals get sick.

Unsatisfactory living conditions and inadequate feeding, dry weather, high ultraviolet irradiation and a mass attack of flies in the warm season.

clinical picture.

The incubation period lasts from 2 days to 3 weeks. The disease occurs in one or both eyes. The disease proceeds in five stages:

• The first stage is catarrhal conjunctivitis accompanied by photophobia, blepharospasm and serous lacrimation.
• Parenchymal keratitis, corneal edema.
• Incipient purulent keratitis, corneal clouding, corneal ulcer, keratocele.
• Purulent keratoconjunctivitis, corneal perforation.
• Purulent panophthalmia, blindness.

The main symptom of the disease is conjunctivitis, accompanied by lacrimation, photophobia and spasm of the eyelids. A sick animal becomes restless, tends to stay in the shade, appetite and milk flow decrease. In the future, redness appears in the conjunctiva, the conjunctiva swells from the eyes, there is a catarrhal - mucous discharge. When conducting a clinical examination on the conjunctiva, we register small grayish-white nodules with a diameter of 10 mm.

A few days later, the inflammatory process passes to the cornea and the sick animal develops mainly catarrhal conjunctivitis, sometimes fibrinous-purulent keratitis. In the center of the cornea, a focus of grayish opacification appears, which later turns into a lighter, gray-blue spot. In some affected animals, we note the swelling of the clouded cornea and the development of ulcers, which lead to blindness in the animal. The disease in the animal lasts 8-10 days and generally ends in recovery.

With the layering of a secondary secondary infection, blindness occurs in the animal. On clinical examination, the cornea is cloudy, has a yellowish tint, the affected area of ​​the cornea abscesses, the animal develops panophthalmitis. In some sick animals, as a result of perforation of the cornea, the lens prolapses and atrophy of the affected eye occurs. Expiration from the eye has a mucopurulent character. A sick animal is depressed, appetite is reduced, body temperature is increased.

Diagnosis veterinary specialists put on the disease in a complex way, taking into account the data of epizootology, the clinical picture of the disease and mandatory confirmation laboratory research(bacteriological, virological and serological).

differential diagnosis. When making a differential diagnosis, veterinarians should rule out infectious diseases that are accompanied by eye damage (malignant catarrhal fever, cowpox, rinderpest, infectious rhinotracheitis and viral diarrhea).

Treatment. Animals are placed in a shaded room. When treating sick animals, topical antibiotic ointments are used - streptomycin, tetracycline, erythromycin, bicillin - 3.5; tylosin, etc. In severe cases, a retrobulbar novocaine blockade with an antibiotic is performed.