Equine ophthalmic examination: Routine diagnostic techniques

Abstract

Summary A complete, thorough ophthalmic examination is essential in the clinical approach to equine ocular diseases. In the majority of cases and more than in most systems, an ophthalmic diagnosis can be achieved at the time of examination because most ocular structures can be visualised either directly or indirectly. This article describes examination protocol and the techniques, instruments and diagnostic procedures currently available to equine general practitioners.

A problem‐based approach to the ‘red eye’

“…Ideally, it is best to be able to watch the patient a little in its environment first. This will help you to gain an appreciation of vision, comfort levels and general behaviour/husbandry information before starting a hands‐on examination (Seruca and Lowe ). You will gain the most out of your examination by being in a darkened environment (e.g.…”