Recognising and treating uveitis in donkeys

Abstract

There is a paucity of information in the veterinary literature regarding ophthalmic disease in the donkey. Uveitis is a potentially blinding condition, which warrants prompt diagnosis and treatment. Clinical signs associated with uveitis include epiphora, aqueous flare, miosis, corneal oedema, keratic precipitates and vitreal inflammation, posterior synechiae formation, cataract formation, lens luxation or subluxation, peripapillary scarring and retinal detachment. Treatment is aimed at suppressing the uveal tract inflammation, through the use of both topical and systemic medications. Surgical intervention may also be considered, with appropriate patient selection. This article describes the clinical signs, diagnosis and management of uveitis in the donkey.