SAEVA Congress 2018 Proceedings | 12-15 February 2018 | ATKV Goudini Spa
tests the range of iris mobility and checks for the presence of synechiae. State on
the report if dilation is done.
Pupil Reflexes:
In horses the pupil reflexes are generally slow. The direct and consensual response
must be performed and in some cases an assistant may be required to observe the
contra lateral pupil for movement. The dazzle [a subcortical response] and menace
response should be performed.
Distant Direct Ophthalmoscopy:
This is probably one of the most useful and under rated tests that veterinarians
perform. Standing an arm’s length from the eye, shine a direct light source at the eye
and any opacity on the transparent media of the eye will be silhouetted against the
retroillumination from the tapetum. It will immediately alert you to pathology. The
concept of parallax can then be used to try and further isolate where the lesion is
exactly.
Close direct ophthalmoscopy:
Holding the direct ophthalmoscope about 3cm from the horse’s eye one is able to
visualize the retina. It may be necessary to change the angle of examination in order
to observe a greater area of the fundus.
Probably the most important aspect of the ocular PPE is to have an idea what
pathology present would be a reason for advising against purchase. These include:
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All neoplastic [eg: SCC, melanoma, sarcoid] or potentially neoplastic lesions
of the adnexa, eyelids, third eyelid, conjunctiva, cornea and uvea.
Presence of current ocular pain, redness and ocular discharge.
Abnormalities in globe size, position or shape.
Any evidence of active inflammation [eg Immune-mediated keratitis and
uveitis]
As with all eye examinations, perform the exam in an ordered manner starting f