[Vitamin A in canine and feline corneal defects - Literature search reveals weak evidence supporting healing effect]

Animals with corneal injuries are frequently presented in the veterinary practice. Vitamin A has long been used in the treatment of corneal ulceration to promote corneal wound healing. However, what is the evidence basis for this approach? Is it supported by the existing literature? In order to shed light on this topic, we searched the literature for relevant articles. Only weak evidence for a clinically relevant, beneficial effect of vitamin A and its derivatives on the healing of corneal defects in dogs and cats was found in 12 articles. Studies to date have focused almost exclusively on the effect in small mammals, where the evidence is mixed. For a better assessment of the potentially positive effect of vitamin A and its derivatives in dogs and cats, prospective, multicenter studies in individuals with corneal ulcerations are warranted. A clinically relevant effect could only be determined in 2 studies in small mammals, the only study carried out to date in dogs could not show a positive effect on wound healing in otherwise undamaged eyes. Therefore, the administration of vitamin A as an additional medication for corneal ulceration should be considered carefully, as the resources and compliance of owners can be negatively affected by additional medication. The administration of essential medication should possess the highest priority.