Anterior uveitis
A report in AJVR (60:932-936,1999) indicates that some cats with chronic anterior uveitis have FHV-1 antigen in aqueous humor
as well as intraocular production of antibody against FHV-1. These results may indicate that some previously diagnosed "idiopathic
uveitis" cases may have FHV-1 as an underlying cause. Systemic therapy with antivirals and judicious use of topical steroids
may be useful in treating these previously frustrating cases.
Recurrent erosions (AKA "Indolent ulcers")
Most veterinary ophthalmologists believe that all "superficial erosion complex" cases in cats are a form of FHV-1 infection
and not necessarily a degenerative disease of the cornea that often accompanies middle age and specific breeds as in the canine.
Some ophthalmologists treat these with topical anti-virals and antibiotics, following gentle cotton swab debridement and/or
treatments with dilute betadine. Topical bandage contact lenses or topical nalbuphine may also help improve patient comfort
without delaying healing. A study in cats demonstrated that linear grid keratotomies in cats increased the rate of development
of sequestra, and is therefore contraindicated.
References
Willis AM. Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Vet Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice: 30 (5) 971-986
Stiles J. Feline Herpesvirus. Vet Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice: 30 (5) 1001-1014
Ramsey T. Feline Chlamydia and Calicivirus Infections. Vet Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice: 30 (5) 1015-1028
LaCroix NC, van der Woerdt A, Olivero DK. Nonhealing corneal uilcers in cats: 29 cases (1991-1999). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;218:733-735
Morgan RV. Feline corneal sequestration: A retrospective study of 42 cases (1987-1991). J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 1994;30:24-28.
|
