Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026
06:15
Author Spotlight: Anterior HR-OCT as a Non-Invasive Tool for Characterizing Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Published on: August 9, 2024
1.7K
Corneal sequestrum in a dog with chronic unilateral keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Alexis J Dubin1, Stefano Pizzirani, Gillian L Beamer
1Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|December 5, 2013
Summary
A corneal sequestrum, rare in dogs, developed in a Cairn Terrier with chronic dry eye. Treatment involved surgery and medication, but dry eye persisted, leading to pigmentary keratopathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Corneal Diseases
Background:
- Chronic keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a common condition in dogs.
- Corneal sequestra are typically seen in cats, with rare occurrences in other species.
- This case examines a corneal sequestrum in a dog with pre-existing KCS.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old Cairn Terrier presented with blepharospasm and a black corneal plaque.
- Clinical findings included decreased tear production and a corneal plaque with stromal malacia.
- Histopathology revealed ulceration, necrosis, and inflammation, with macrophages containing intracytoplasmic inclusions.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the plaque and a conjunctival graft were performed.
- Microscopic examination ruled out bacterial, fungal, or viral causes.
- Post-operative treatment with tacrolimus did not resolve the KCS, and pigmentary keratopathy developed.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare corneal sequestrum in a dog, potentially linked to chronic KCS.
- It underscores the importance of managing underlying conditions like KCS in ocular health.
- Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms linking KCS to corneal sequestrum formation in dogs.
