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Equine keratomycoses in California from 1987 to 2010 (47 cases)
Z Reed1, S M Thomasy, K L Good
1William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, USA.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|September 5, 2012
Summary
Equine keratomycosis is uncommon in California, with Aspergillus being the most frequent fungal isolate. Corneal perforation significantly impacts vision outcomes in affected horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Equine Health
Background:
- Equine keratomycosis (fungal eye infections) is understudied in the western USA due to presumed low prevalence.
- This study addresses the lack of data on equine fungal keratitis in California.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize clinical features, fungal isolates, treatments, and outcomes of equine keratomycosis in California.
- To compare findings with data from other geographic regions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 48 equine eyes diagnosed with keratomycosis at the University of California-Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (UCD-VMTH) between 1987 and 2010.
- Data collected included ophthalmic findings, treatments, and outcomes (globe and vision retention).
Main Results:
- Aspergillus was the most common fungal isolate (64%) among 38 cultured cases; a novel Papulospora isolate was also identified.
- Globe retention was 77% and vision retention was 53%.
- Corneal perforation was strongly associated with vision loss (P<0.001).
Conclusions:
- Equine keratomycosis is infrequent at the UCD-VMTH, representing 2% of ophthalmology cases.
- Corneal perforation is a significant negative prognostic factor for vision in horses with keratomycosis in this region.
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