Corneal Health and Edema Quiz

Corneal edema is a condition where excessive fluid accumulates in the cornea, causing a loss of transparency due to collagen lamellae being forced apart.

The endothelium regulates stromal fluid balance by pumping out solutes (and water) from the stroma to the aqueous humor.

The epithelium prevents tears from entering the stroma.

Diffuse corneal edema is typically non-painful, uninflamed, and does not retain fluorescein.

Focal corneal edema can be painful, inflamed, retain fluorescein, and cause abnormal intraocular pressure.

Endothelial degeneration and endothelial dystrophy are potential causes of diffuse corneal edema.

Glaucoma, anterior uveitis, anterior lens luxation, and corneal ulceration are potential causes of focal corneal edema.

Corneal edema is often observed in older dogs due to age-related endothelial cell loss.

Corneal edema can often be reversed if the underlying disease is addressed and sufficient endothelial function remains.

Deep vessels appear as "hedges" and are typically associated with stromal or intraocular diseases.

Superficial vessels appear as "trees" and are often linked to surface diseases.

Corneal vascularization is generally beneficial, especially in stromal repair, as it provides a blood supply to the healing area.

Corneal bullae are small vesicles that can rupture, causing corneal ulcerations.

Bullous keratopathy is a condition characterized by the formation of large bullae.

Topical antibiotics are often used to prevent infection if corneal bullae rupture.

Corneal malacia is a condition characterized by collagenolysis, leading to loss of corneal rigidity and stromal sagging.

Corneal edema presents as a blue, "fluffy" appearance, reducing corneal transparency.

Corneal vascularization appears as red, often linear blood vessels.

Corneal fibrosis or scar formation appears as a gray or "feathery" appearance, often with indistinct borders.

Corneal melanosis is a condition characterized by black or brown coloration with distinct borders.

Stromal infiltration with white blood cells presents as a yellowish-green appearance with indistinct borders.

Anterior stromal deposition of lipid and/or mineral presents as a white, punctate, granular, or spiculated appearance with distinct borders.

The cornea receives nutrition from the aqueous humor and tears.

Epiphora (excessive tearing) and aqueous humor flare are visual indicators of keratitis.

Topical corticosteroids inhibit fibroplasia, vascularization, and melanosis, but can also inhibit epithelial regeneration and wound healing.

Topical corticosteroids are justified if infection is controlled, epithelial covering is established, corneal structural integrity is not compromised, and the corneal disease is not caused by feline herpesvirus or another primary infectious agent.