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Bilateral nodular lymphocytic conjunctivitis in a horse
Riccardo Stoppini1, Brian C Gilger, David E Malarkey
1Solo Practitioner, Via Pace 24, 25122 Brescia, Italy. stopric@tin.it
Veterinary Ophthalmology
|March 15, 2005
Summary
This study reports a rare case of bilateral conjunctival masses in a horse, diagnosed as nodular lymphocytic conjunctivitis. Topical corticosteroids were effective in resolving the lesions after surgical excision failed to provide a complete cure.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Equine Pathology
Background:
- Conjunctival masses in horses can present as neoplastic or inflammatory lesions.
- Equine conjunctival pseudotumor, a form of nodular lymphocytic conjunctivitis, is typically unilateral and treated with surgical excision.
Observation:
- A Russian jumper horse presented with bilateral perilimbal conjunctival masses of varying size and conformation.
- Surgical excision of the masses was attempted, with rapid recurrence in the left eye.
Findings:
- Histopathology revealed focal, chronic, lymphocytic conjunctivitis with follicular lymphoid hyperplasia in both lesions.
- Special stains and immunohistochemistry ruled out infectious agents, identifying an inflammatory lesion with lymphocytes and macrophages.
- The bilateral lesions were clinically and behaviorally consistent with conjunctival pseudotumor but did not resolve with surgery alone.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of bilateral nodular lymphocytic conjunctivitis in a horse.
- Topical corticosteroid therapy proved effective for resolution, suggesting a role in managing this condition.
- The findings expand the clinical presentation and treatment considerations for equine conjunctival pseudotumor/nodular lymphocytic conjunctivitis.