Conjunctiva

Question 1

Infectious causes of canine conjunctivitis

Answer 1

Bacterial 2˚ to KCS and conformational defects – Tx broad spectrum abx
Viral from Distemper or canine herpesvirus - scarpings show cytoplasmic inclusions
Parasitic from Thelazia californiensis in conjunctival cul-de-sac

Question 2

Infectious causes of feline conjunctivitis

Answer 2

Herpesvirus** - 1˚ in kittens – Dx with Rose Bengal stain and visualizing Dendritic ulcers but can IFA and PCR
Tx is symptomatic: Topical Abx +/- topical (cidofovir) and systemic antivirals depending on severity
Vaccination does not prevent infection but limits clinical signs

Then there is chlamydophylla felis and mycoplasma felis – Tx with tetracycline

Calicivirus, reovirus can also do.

Bacterial is RARE in cats as primary but occur secondarily

Question 3

Dx of allergic conjunctivitis

Answer 3

a single eosinophil on cytology from a scraping; or numerous plasma cells and lymphocytes

Question 4

TX of allergic conjunctivitis

Answer 4

topical steroids, antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers