Glaucoma - Elevated Eye PressureGlaucoma is a relatively rare condition in horses. The normal eye pressure is 15-34 mmHg. Glaucoma is diagnosed when the pressure is elevated. Unlike dogs, the clinical signs are more subtle and usually follows a long history of inflammation (uveitis) in the eye.
Other causes of glaucoma can include tumours inside the eye. |
Clinical Signs |
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Subtle cloudiness to the cornea sometimes with lines
Poorly responsive pupil to bright light Slight redness on the white of the eye Reduced vision Changes to the iris Globe enlargement |
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Diagnosis
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Examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist is required.
This examination is made in the darkened room using a slit lamp and indirect ophthalmoscope. The eye pressure is measured with a tonovet. Nerve blocks or sedation may be required. Horses older than 15 years of age and Appaloosa have a greater risk. Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Topical medications may help control the eye pressure. However not all glaucoma medications are safe to use in the horse. If medications do not improve the condition then surgery can be considered. Surgery Laser transcleral photocoagulation or a glaucoma shunt can be considered. Chronically blind painful eyes should be removed or have an intrascleral prosthetic placed. |
Slit lamp
Tonometry
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