Impact of fungal species cultured on outcome in horses with fungal keratitis

Abstract

Equine keratomycosis from Fusarium spp. compared to keratomycosis from Aspergillus spp. is not associated with a different clinical outcome.

Biofilms of Candida spp. from the ocular conjunctiva of horses with reduced azole susceptibility: a complicating factor for the treatment of keratomycosis?

“…Fungal infections are a common cause of corneal diseases in horses, accounting for up to one‐third of all inflammatory keratopathies in this animal species . Keratomycosis is a sight‐threatening, frequently painful condition that can result in vision or eye globe loss, often requiring an aggressive and long‐lasting treatment .…”

“…In addition to these anatomical and physiological predisposing features of the equine eye, some specific conditions also contribute for the development of keratomycosis in these animals. For instance, corneal epithelial injuries or alterations of the tear film allow the entrance of opportunistic fungi from the conjunctival microbiota or the environment into the corneal tissue . These fungi may colonize the cornea, penetrate its stroma, and migrate between its collagen layers .…”

The effects of subconjunctival bupivacaine, lidocaine, and mepivacaine on corneal sensitivity in healthy horses

“…Because of the cornea's exquisite sensitivity, corneal lesions can cause significant discomfort. Unfortunately, due to the prominent location of their eyes and frequent exposure to dust and vegetative material, corneal disease is common in horses . These corneal lesions are often painful and may require diagnostic tests and treatments (e.g., keratectomies, intrastromal injections, and cytology collection) that can cause additional discomfort …”

“…Unfortunately, due to the prominent location of their eyes and frequent exposure to dust and vegetative material, corneal disease is common in horses. 3,4 These corneal lesions are often painful and may require diagnostic tests and treatments (e.g., keratectomies, intrastromal injections, and cytology collection) that can cause additional discomfort. 5 Corneal sensitivity is evaluated with a Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer, and it is quantified using the corneal touch threshold (CTT).…”

Highlights of recent clinically relevant papers

“…This study by Amanda Sherman and colleagues in the USA aimed to determine the significance of Aspergillus and Fusarium spp. on clinical outcome in equine keratomycosis .…”