Radiotherapy for canine chronic superficial keratitis using soft X-rays (15 kV)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Ophthalmology
• Radiation Therapy
• Ocular Surface Disease

Background:

• Chronic superficial keratitis (CSK) is a common condition in dogs.
• Refractory cases often present significant challenges for treatment.
• Existing therapies may have limited efficacy or undesirable side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of soft X-ray therapy for treating severe, refractory canine CSK.
• To compare the outcomes of soft X-ray therapy with historical data from Sr-90 irradiation.

Main Methods:

• Thirteen dogs with severe CSK, unresponsive to prior treatments, were enrolled.
• Both corneas received soft X-ray irradiation (15 kV, 30 Gy total dose in two fractions).
• Three dogs underwent superficial lamellar keratectomy prior to radiotherapy; outcomes were monitored via clinical assessment and photography.

Main Results:

• Soft X-ray therapy demonstrated a superior effect on CSK compared to Sr-90 irradiation.
• Minor, transient adverse effects including photophobia, epiphora, and blepharitis were observed.
• The treatment was well-tolerated, with no significant complications reported.

Conclusions:

• Soft X-ray irradiation, particularly when combined with keratectomy, is a safe and effective novel treatment for severe CSK.
• This therapeutic option can significantly improve visual impairment caused by advanced corneal pathology.
• Further research may explore optimizing protocols for broader application.