Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects in dogs: a review

J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2005 May-Jun;41(3):158-65. doi: 10.5326/0410158.

Abstract

Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) in dogs are typically found in middle-aged dogs of all breeds. These epithelial defects may be present for weeks to months, particularly if left untreated or if treated inappropriately. Typical histopathological findings include loss of the corneal epithelial basement membrane and formation of a superficial, acellular, hyalinized zone in the stroma. Together, these histological abnormalities lead to delayed wound healing and poor epithelial adhesion. Epithelial debridement, anterior stromal puncture, grid keratotomy, and superficial keratectomy are the most common treatment options applied to the defects. Procedures that address the stromal changes present generally have a higher success rate than epithelial debridement alone.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Corneal Diseases / pathology
  • Corneal Diseases / surgery
  • Corneal Diseases / veterinary*
  • Debridement / methods
  • Debridement / veterinary*
  • Dog Diseases / pathology
  • Dog Diseases / surgery*
  • Dogs
  • Keratotomy, Radial / methods
  • Keratotomy, Radial / veterinary*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Wound Healing