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Objective: To describe a case of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in a horse. Animal Studied: A client‐owned 12‐year‐old Standardbred gelding presenting with chronic conjunctivitis and palpebral masses. Methods: Complete ophthalmic examination, surgical excision, histopathology, and bacterial culture of biopsy samples were performed. Results: Upper and lower eyelids of both eyes were affected, with multiple yellow‐to‐white nodules on the palpebral conjunctiva, adjacent to the eyelid margin. Nodule removal was achieved via partial tarsal plate excision. Histopathological examination revealed granulomatous inflammation and large droplets of presumed free lipid in the conjunctival lamina propria. The animal was diagnosed with lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis. No postoperative ocular discomfort was observed for months; however, 3 years later, new conjunctival nodules were noticed, requiring a second surgical procedure on three of the eyelids. Transient entropion in the left lower eyelid was observed 2 months after the second surgery, and no recurrence of conjunctival nodules was observed after 18 months of follow‐up. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the epidemiological factors and clinical significance of canine distichiasis. Animals studied: Two hundred and ninety‐one client‐owned dogs. Methods: Retrospective study of medical records for canine patients diagnosed with distichiasis between 2010 and 2019 in an ophthalmology specialty practice. The breed, sex, skull conformation, coat type, age at the time of diagnosis, reason for presentation, clinical examination findings, and affected eyelid(s) were reviewed. Results: The prevalence of distichiasis was 5.5% (95% confidence interval (CI): 4.9–6.1) in the population of dogs presented to an ophthalmology specialty practice. The breeds with the highest prevalence were English bulldogs (35.2%, 95% CI: 26.7–43.7) and American cocker spaniels (19.4%, 95% CI: 8.3–30.5). The prevalence was significantly higher in brachycephalic dogs (11.9%, 95% CI: 9.8–14.0) than in non‐brachycephalic dogs (4.6%, 95% CI: 4.0–5.3) and in short‐haired dogs (8.2%, 95% CI: 6.8–9.6) than in dogs with other coat types (5.3%, 95% CI: 4.5–6.1). Most dogs were affected bilaterally (63.6%, 95% CI: 58.0–69.1). Among dogs with clinical signs, 39.0% (95% CI: 26.5–51.4) exhibited corneal ulceration, including superficial ulcers (28.8%, 95% CI: 17.3–40.4) and deep stromal ulcers (10.2%, 95% CI: 2.5–17.8). Distichiasis was non‐irritating in 85.0% (95% CI: 80.6–89.4) of affected dogs. Conclusion: This study reports the largest cohort of canine distichiasis to date. In a large proportion of dogs, distichiasis was a non‐irritating condition. However, brachycephalic breeds, especially English bulldogs, were the most frequently and severely affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To perform a reconstructive blepharoplasty to obtain complete surgical excision of a darkly pigmented raised conjunctival‐eyelid mass of the lower eyelid in a dog. Animal studied A 7‐year‐old, female‐spayed, Yorkshire Terrier was evaluated for a slowly progressive, dark brown‐to‐black raised mass of the lower left eyelid. Sampling of the mass via fine‐needle aspirate or incisional biopsy was declined, and an excision of the mass with the goal to obtain complete margins and maintain normal eyelid function with cosmesis was elected. Procedures: The lower palpebral conjunctival‐eyelid pigmented mass was excised en bloc and the lower eyelid was reconstructed with a mucocutaneous subdermal plexus flap. Results: Histopathology revealed a malignant dermal and conjunctivalmelanoma excised with complete margins (1–2 mm). Short‐term complications included corneal ulceration and eschar formation, which resolved completely at the 1‐month follow‐up. Long‐term complications included mild trichiasis with epiphora and porphyrin staining. Tumor recurrence was not observed during an 8‐month follow‐up period. Conclusions: The en bloc excision with mucocutaneous subdermal plexus flap was successful in obtaining complete surgical margins for a malignant conjunctival‐eyelid melanoma. An excellent functional and cosmetic outcome was achieved without tumor recurrence during an 8‐month follow‐up period. A mucocutaneous subdermal plexus flap can be considered as a surgical option for malignant melanoma of the lower eyelid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report the clinical history, surgical management, and histologic findings of meibomian gland calcification and osseous metaplasia in a horse. Animal Studied: A 21‐year‐old Selle Français gelding presented with a 9 months history of blepharitis, blepharospasm, and epiphora affecting the right eye. The horse was diagnosed with meibomianitis and impaction with associated granulomas, but not treated surgically for 6 years. Procedures: Physical and ophthalmic examinations, and systemic bloodwork were performed. A diamond burr debridement was performed on a corneal ulceration, and meibomian gland nodules were excised and examined histologically. Results: Multiple firm concretions were associated with the palpebral conjunctiva of each eyelid. The largest nodule (5 × 4 × 10 mm) was excised from the lower right eyelid. Histology revealed dilated meibomian ducts with mineralized inspissated secretions surrounded by fibrosis and osseous metaplasia. Following nodule excision and corneal ulcer resolution, no blepharospasm or epiphora recurred for a follow‐up period of 15 months. Conclusion: Calcification and osseous metaplasia of the meibomian glands was identified in a Selle Français gelding. It is suspected that inspissated meibomian secretions led to a local granulomatous reaction with secondary dystrophic calcification and osseous metaplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe a simple and effective surgery for feline eyelid agenesis. Procedure: Free oral mucosal grafts were harvested from the upper lips of the surgical patients. A recipient bed was created by incising the conjunctiva at the conjunctival‐skin border and opening a space in the tissue with blunt dissection without removal of tissue. The free oral mucosal graft was sutured into the space with simple continuous suture pattern of 7‐0 Vicryl. Results: Eyelids were cosmetically acceptable at final examination, and areas of coloboma appeared less prominent. Patient comfort was improved in all subjects as subjectively noted by decreased blepharospasm. All grafts were successfully incorporated. All patients developed brown‐colored crusting over the grafts within days of the surgery, which gradually resolved over a 4‐ to 6‐week period. Three of seven patients developed few trichiatic hairs at the donor‐recipient junction, and two of these patients had follow‐up cryoepilation. Conclusion: For feline eyelid agenesis, free oral mucosal graft implantation was successful in creating space between fur and cornea with insertion of smooth‐surfaced, hairless tissue, alleviating the discomfort of hair contacting the cornea. The extra tissue can also create a small overhang or fold of tissue (pseudo‐lid) which may also be protective. For two cases, cryoepilation of few trichiatic hairs at the donor‐recipient border was performed at a later date. As illustrated by case 3, use of a long and wide rectangular graft with squared edges is recommended to lessen the chance of trichiasis at lateral or medial edges of recipient‐donor junctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical outcome, possible complications, and recurrence rate of distichiasis in dogs treated with partial tarsal plate excision (PTPE) technique using a transconjunctival approach. Methods: Retrospective study including 17 client-owned canine patients affected with distichiasis and presenting with associated clinical signs (ie, blepharospasm, epiphora, chronic keratoconjunctivitis, or corneal ulceration) that underwent surgical removal of the aberrant lashes using a PTPE technique between January 2018 and February 2019. Data collected included breed, age, sex, affected eyelid(s), number of distichia, and tear film breakup time (TBUT). Resected cilia-bearing tarsoconjunctival strips were submitted for histopathological analysis. Results: Thirty eyes (52 eyelids) from 17 dogs were included in the study. The median age was 688 days (range 118-4243 days). A successful outcome, defined as complete resolution of clinical signs attributable to the distichia, occurred in all eyes after a single procedure, with a mean follow-up time of 239 days (range 69-480 days). Appearance of new distichia occurred in 14/30 eyes (46.3%), and of these, three eyes needed a new PTPE procedure. Recurrence of the distichia only occurred in one eye (3.3%) which was asymptomatic. Following surgery, TBUT decreased below the normal value in 7/24 eyes (29.1%) although none developed clinical signs of qualitative tear film deficiency. Post-operative complications included trichiasis and cicatricial entropion, which developed in two eyes (6.6%), and these were successfully managed with corrective eyelid surgery. Conclusions: Partial tarsal plate excision, using a transconjunctival approach, had an excellent clinical outcome with a low incidence of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the use of hyaluronic acid (HA) subdermal filler in canines and felines for entropion. Methods: Complete ophthalmologic examination was performed by a board‐certified veterinary ophthalmologist or ABVO‐approved resident. Each case was characterized as primary, secondary, spastic or cicatricial entropion. HA subdermal filler, specifically Restylane® and Restylane Silk®, were utilized in dogs and cats, respectively. Subdermal injection was performed 1‐2 mm from the eyelid margin in the affected area until normal eyelid conformation was achieved. All patients did not require sedation or general anesthesia. Results: Forty animals (28 dogs and 12 cats) were included in the study. No local reaction to the HA dermal filler or any other complications other than minor skin bleeding at the injection sites were noted in all patients. Resolution of entropion and secondary complications including corneal ulceration, epiphora, and blepharospasm were noted by the first week after injection in the majority of cases. Three canines and one feline case failed to resolve the entropion, necessitating additional permanent surgical intervention. Two cases were submitted for histopathological analysis. Median follow‐up time for all cases was 152.5 days (mean: 194.6 ± 142.7 days; range 9‐419 days). Five patients died or were euthanized during the study for unrelated causes. Conclusions: Hyaluronic acid (HA) subdermal filler appears to be a safe, easy, reliable method for mild to moderate eyelid entropion not requiring general anesthesia. This procedure may be especially appropriate for geriatric patients and those with high anesthetic risk with entropion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of our work was to study the potential of tarsomarginal grafting technique, in canine. Animal studied: All dogs included in this study had tumors of the upper or lower eyelid. Furthermore, resection of the tumor necessitated excision of the eyelid margin comprising 1/4 and 2/3. Procedure: Harvesting of the graft with the length of half the length of the tumor, including its free margins was performed via a full‐thickness incision on the ipsilateral healthy eyelid. The cutaneous layer and all of the muscle fibers of the transplant were meticulously removed except a 3 mm strip along the free lid margin. A full‐thickness tumor excision was then performed. The graft was sutured at the level of the defect to be reconstructed. A sliding H flap was generated. The resulting nourishing myocutaneous flap was then sutured along the free margin of the tarso‐conjunctivo‐marginal graft. The lateral edges of the advancement flap were sutured to the edges of the receiving sites. Results: The average size of the reconstructed area was 17.8 mm. The resulting stretched lid fissure length after surgery was shortened over 7 to 11 mm. This technique for grafting was used to reconstruct an eyelid that had lost tissue measuring between 1/4 and 2/3 of its length. The few complications that were encountered were mainly the occurrence of keratitis or suture dehiscence. Conclusions: This tarsomarginal grafting technique has yielded encouraging results in dogs. This technique can fill large lid defects with a physiologic lid margin but is shortening the stretched lid fissure length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe a successful, simple treatment for canine distichiasis. Animals studied: Client‐owned dogs presenting to Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, Levittown, Pennsylvania. Procedure: Retrospective analysis of medical records for canine patients that underwent transconjunctival thermal electrocautery treatment (TCEC) for distichiasis alone or with concurrent eyelid surgery between 2013 and 2016. Fifty eyes of 26 dogs (n = 88 eyelids) were included in the study. Sixty‐five eyelids (74%) were treated for distichia only, while 23 eyelids (26%) underwent concurrent eyelid surgery. Successful treatment was defined as resolution of clinical signs attributable to distichiasis. Forty‐eight of 50 eyes (96%) were successfully treated with a single TCEC treatment (mean follow‐up 187 ± 222 days). Sixty‐one of 88 eyelids (69%) had no distichia at any follow‐up time. Twenty‐two eyelids (25%) had recurrence at or near a previously treated site (mean 150 ± 152 days). Of the eyes with recurrent distichia, all but 2 (91%) remained asymptomatic, requiring no further treatment. One dog with extensive TCEC treatment had significant recurrence on all eyelids requiring retreatment that resulted in focal entropion of 1 eyelid. Transient eyelid margin pigment loss and mild‐to‐moderate eyelid swelling were noted in all treated eyelids postoperatively. Suspected treatment site infection occurred 2 days postoperatively in 2/50 eyes (4%) of 1 patient. Two of 10 eyes (20%) with extensive eyelid treatment developed qualitative tear film deficiency OU (554 days postoperatively) and responded to topical tear stimulant therapy. Conclusion: TCEC is a successful, simple treatment for canine distichiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: To describe the outcome of modified brow suspension technique for the treatment of upper eyelid pseudoptosis in canine patients with redundant frontal skin folds. METHODS: Medical records from 1999 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Only dogs that underwent modified brow suspension for treating bilateral pseudoptosis were included in the study. Recorded data included breed, age, gender, main ophthalmic complaint, ocular findings, suture material used for brow suspension, number of slings placed, postoperative treatment, complications, follow-up time, and outcome. RESULTS: Twenty-five adult dogs of different gender and breed fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with the Shar-Pei being overrepresented (19/25;76%). The main complaint at first presentation was mucopurulent discharge (10/25;40%) and blepharospasm (10/25;40%). Concurrent corneal disease was diagnosed in 47 eyes (47/50;94%). Monofilament polyamide was the most frequently used suture material (46/50;92%). Number of slings placed varied, with one in two eyes (4%), two in 28 eyes (56%), three in 17 eyes (34%), and four in three eyes (6%). Complications were seen in three eyes (6%): suture rupture (one eye; 2%) and skin abscess (two eyes; 4%). Mean follow-up time was 17.6 months (1-84 months), with no cases of fold dermatitis or dermatologic disease observed within this period. Good esthetic and functional outcomes were obtained in 47 eyes at first intervention (97%) and in all patients after re-intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoma cutis describes bone formation in skin and is well documented in the medical literature, but veterinary reports are few. We report a single case of a juvenile samoyed that was referred for assessment of a superior eyelid anomaly. Exploratory surgery and histopathology revealed the presence of mature, lamellar bone within the superior eyelid. The histologic appearance was consistent with primary osteoma cutis. The presence of the ossification within the deep dermis of the eyelid was associated with an abnormal conformation causing trichiasis, keratitis and dorsal strabismus. Identification of the osseous lesion during surgery and its removal was curative with no recurrence of disease during the 32 month follow-up period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocular and eyelid lesions are a common finding in birds; however, avian ocular and eyelid neoplasia is seldom reported. The purpose of this study was to record clinical and pathological data from cases of avian ocular neoplasia submitted to the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin over a 29-year period. A total of 284 avian ocular pathology cases from 1982 to 2011 were reviewed. Out of those, 15 were diagnosed with nine different ocular tumors (5.2%). Metastatic cancer to the globe was diagnosed in seven cases. Six of the metastatic cancers were diagnosed as lymphoma and one as papillary cystic carcinoma of respiratory epithelial origin, presumably originating in the sinus. Primary tumors were diagnosed in eight cases including three tumors of epithelial origin (undifferentiated carcinoma, multicystic adenoma, and pigmented iridociliary adenoma). A teratoid medulloepithelioma and a ganglioneuroma were presumptively diagnosed. A round cell tumor and squamous cell carcinoma were detected in conjunctival samples, and a teratoma was diagnosed from an episcleral sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective (i) To report the successful treatment of 10 cases of equine periocular squamous cell carcinoma ( PSCC) with surgical excision and photodynamic therapy ( PDT) using verteporfin. (ii) To evaluate time to first tumor recurrence between PDT-treated horses and horses treated with surgical excision and cryotherapy. Methods A total of 24 equine PSCC cases were included: group 1 ( n = 14) had excision and cryotherapy (1993-2003), group 2 ( n = 10), excision and local PDT (2006-2010). Evaluated data: signalment, treatment method, tumor location, size, and time to first recurrence. Groups were compared via chi-square test for categorical variables and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for numeric variables. Time to tumor recurrence was examined using Kaplan- Meier product-limit survival analysis. Results Of 24 cases, nine breeds were affected. Mean age at treatment in years: 14 (range 5-24) in group 1; 11 (range 8-18) in group 2. Median tumor size: 163 mm2 (range 20-625 mm2) in group 1; 195 mm2 (range 45-775 mm2) in group 2. Signalment, tumor laterality, and size were not significantly different between groups. Time to recurrence was significantly different between groups (Logrank test, P = 0.0006). In group 1, 11/14 horses had tumor regrowth with median time to recurrence in months: 10 (range 1-44). In group 2 (minimum follow-up of 25 months; range 25-50), no horse demonstrated tumor recurrence after one treatment with excision and PDT. Conclusions This represents the first report of local PDT using verteporfin for treatment of equine PSCC. Following surgery, the likelihood of tumor recurrence was significantly reduced with local PDT compared with cryotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 4-year-old intact male ferret was presented to the Ophthalmology Service of the Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals of Utrecht University with chronic blepharospasm, epiphora, and conjunctivitis of the right eye. Examination of the eye revealed mild conjunctivitis and three hairs protruding from the openings of meibomian glands in the upper eyelid, providing the clinical diagnosis of distichiasis. The distichia were removed by transconjunctival unipolar electrocautery. Recovery was uneventful, but the original signs recurred 10 weeks after surgery. Ophthalmic examination revealed another distichia at a different location in the same eyelid and it was removed by full-thickness wedge excision. Histopathological examination failed to reveal the exact origin of the distichia. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of distichiasis in a ferret. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liposarcomas are rare malignant tumors of the adipose tissue which are well described in humans and animals. Wide margin excision is the recommended treatment for these infiltrative, slow to metastasize tumors. Primary liposarcoma with ocular localization is a very rare tumor in humans, dogs and cats. This report describes, for the first time, a palpebral liposarcoma in a 18-month old guinea pig that presented with a large palpebral mass and purulent discharge in the right eye. The ophthalmic evaluation revealed a one-centimeter infiltrating subcutaneous mass within the upper eyelid, a severe chemosis and hyperhemia of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva of the right eye. Cytologic examination of the mass revealed only epithelial cells. Histologic examination interpreted the lesion as a xanthogranulomatous reaction possibly secondary to meibomian gland rupture or inflammation. One month later, the mass had increased in size and the animal had stopped eating. Euthanasia was perfomed and a large biopsy was submitted for another histological examination. Histopathology revealed polygonal to rounded cells with a large, empty intracytoplasmic vacuole, and an ovoid, eccentrically located nucleus. The histology was consistent with a well-differentiated liposarcoma. Given the unusual location, immunohistochemistry was performed to ascertain the mesenchymal nature of the neoplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 18-year-old zoo-kept female Amur tiger presented with an approximately 5 mm diameter lateral canthal eyelid mass in the left eye which grossly appeared red and irregular. The mass was completely excised via lateral canthoplasty. Histopathologic evaluation was consistent with a diagnosis of sebaceous cell carcinoma, which is a potentially aggressive cutaneous neoplasm. The sebaceous carcinoma recurred within 3 months and slowly increased in size until a second surgical excision was performed 9 months following the first surgery. The second surgical excision was combined with intralesional injection of 10 mg of the antiangiogenic drug bevacizumab. Histology confirmed the diagnosis. The tiger was euthanized 16 months postoperatively for reasons unrelated to, and without recurrence of, the eyelid neoplasm. At postmortem, no gross periocular or metastatic lesions were noted, and histopathology of the lateral canthus provided no evidence of recurrence. Surgical excision combined with intralesional bevacizumab treatment induced life-long resolution of the sebaceous carcinoma. Bevacizumab treatment may be associated with the regression of periocular angiogenic proliferative conditions, including neoplasia, by inhibiting angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 3-year-old neutered male boxer dog presented with a 6-month history of a waxing and waning mass of the left dorsotemporal eyelid margin. Cytology and biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of mast cell neoplasia. Systemic staging of the dog failed to reveal any evidence of metastatic neoplasia. Owing to the location of the tumor within the eyelid margin and the wide surgical margins recommended for excision of mast cell tumors, Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) was chosen for its potential to conserve tissues while providing intraoperative confirmation the tumor was completely excised. Utilizing MMS horizontal sectioning technique, 100% of the surgical margins were assessed prior to closure of the surgical wound. This represents the first time a comprehensive MMS protocol was used in a veterinary patient under general anesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe the clinical findings and prognosis for extraocular lymphoma in the horse. Procedures Retrospective medical records study of horses diagnosed with third eyelid, corneoscleral, conjunctival, and/or eyelid lymphoma from multiple academic and private veterinary institutions. Data collected from the medical records included signalment, clinical descriptions of the extraocular lesions, treatment, and treatment outcomes. Nonparametric statistical analysis was performed with Fischer's exact tests. Results Extraocular lymphoma involving the eyelid, third eyelid, cornea, sclera, and/or conjunctiva was diagnosed in 26 horses. Differences in signalment, unilateral vs. bilateral extraocular involvement, and single vs. multiple extraocular lesion locations held no significance in terms of outcome. Animals studied Horses with lesions localized to the eyelid or other nonextraocular cutaneous locations had a significantly higher chance of negative outcome when compared to the horses with no eyelid or cutaneous involvement ( P = 0.019). Lesions to the third eyelid, corneosclera, and conjunctiva were either nodular or diffuse in nature. Nodular lesions when compared to diffuse lesions were associated with a higher chance of a positive outcome ( P = 0.007). Surgical resection of the extraocular lesions as part of the treatment produced a statistically higher chance of a positive outcome when compared to horses where resection was not performed ( P = 0.03). Conclusions The prognosis for clinical remission in horses with extraocular lymphoma is generally fair to good, as long as the affected tissues are completely excised, and there is no eyelid or cutaneous involvement. Horses diagnosed with the nodular form of extraocular lymphoma seem to have the best prognosis with complete excision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To evaluate the success rate of various surgical techniques for the management of lower eyelid entropion in cats. Design Retrospective study. Animals studied One hundred and twenty-four cats with surgical correction of lower eyelid entropion of 200 eyes over a 13 year period. Methods Records of 124 cats were reviewed for signalment, type of entropion, surgical procedure performed and post-operative result. Results Combinations of the Hotz-Celsus (HC), lateral canthal closure and full thickness wedge resection techniques were used to treat 64 bilateral and 60 unilateral cases of lower lid entropion. Twenty-three cats were under a year of age, 52 cats were aged between 2 and 8 years and 49 were over 8 years old. The overall success rate for a single surgical procedure (which may consist of multiple techniques) to correct lower eyelid entropion was 96.0% per eye. The remaining 4.0% had the entropion resolved with a second surgery. A combined HC and lateral canthal closure had a 99.21% success rate of resolving lower lid entropion. Geriatric cats were the most likely age group to develop corneal sequestra; 37% of cats in this group presented with entropion and corneal sequestra concurrently. Seventeen percent of cats that presented with unilateral entropion and did not have prophylactic surgery on the fellow eye went on to develop entropion in the fellow eye. Conclusions A combined HC and lateral canthal closure was the most effective surgical technique in managing lower eyelid entropion of cats in our study. Prophylactic lateral canthal closure in the unaffected eye is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To summarize the medical knowledge surrounding aardvarks to date, to describe the ophthalmic examination of a specimen with a chronic history of an upper eyelid lesion, of an assumed blind left eye, and to detail the anesthesia procedure performed. Procedure A 23-year-old aardvark was examined under general anesthesia and multiple ocular abnormalities were detected in the left eye (globe deviation, corneal opacities, iridodonesis, and aphakia). A thickening of the palpebral conjunctiva affecting the medial upper eyelid with erosion of the normal eyelid margin anatomy was identified. The adnexal lesion was resected by a wedge resection and histopathology was performed. Suture breakdown 3 days postoperatively required a second surgery, where buried sutures were used. The surgical techniques and postoperative care are discussed. Results The histopathology revealed mucosal hyperplasia and moderate neutrophilic and lymphoplasmacytic blepharitis. No causal organisms were identified. Following initial wound dehiscence and a modified surgical technique, the upper eyelid healed without complication and retained complete function. Conclusions The eyelid lesion involved a benign inflammatory and hyperplastic pathology of unknown etiology. Adjusting routine ophthalmic surgical techniques to wildlife and zoo animals can be challenging and complicated. It is important to understand the nature of the animals being managed, their circadian cycle, and habitat, to adjust and individualize the surgical approach, instrumentation, suture material, and perioperative treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repair of eyelid agenesis in nine eyes of five cats using a lip commissure to eyelid transposition is described. The procedure is a modification of the technique described by Pavletic for reconstruction of the canine inferior eyelid and provides skin, mucosa, a mucocutaneous junction, and muscle to reconstruct the superior and inferior eyelid and lateral canthus. The technique was successful in all eyes and resulted in improvement in corneal protection, cosmesis and in several cats a return of the palpebral reflex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Characterization of a benign disease syndrome involving the eyelids of dogs, describing the signalment, clinical appearance, anatomic location, and pathologic features. Animal studied The records and submitted tissue of 10 dogs with mesenchymal hamartomatous lesions of the periocular connective tissues were retrieved from the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW) database. Procedure The submitted tissue in each case was stained with hematoxilyn & eosin and Masson’s Trichrome stain and examined histopathologically. Clinical information was collected from the submission requests. The clinical history, treatment, and follow-up are described in more detail for one of the 10 dogs. Results Seven different breeds, including four Golden Retrievers, were represented. The ages of affected dogs ranged from 6 to 11 years. Eight of 10 lesions were located at the temporal canthus, ranging in diameter from 0.6 to 3 cm. Clinically, the masses were subcutaneous, firm, lobular soft-tissue growths, which were in some cases adherent to the underlying orbital rim, and in others, freely palpable between the skin and conjunctiva of the eyelid. Histologically, all had distinct margins but were not encapsulated and contained normal appearing collagen-rich connective tissue with some adipose tissue. Five also contained fully differentiated skeletal muscle tissue arranged in poorly formed aggregates or as individual muscle fibers. Conclusion Mesenchymal hamartoma of the eyelid has not been previously described. The mass has a predisposition to occur at the temporal canthus and should be included in the list of differential diagnoses of benign eyelid masses in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe feline periocular cutaneous mast cell tumor (CMCT) clinical features, rates of local tumor recurrence and metastases, and cat survival time following surgical excision. Animals studied Thirty-three cats with periocular CMCTs. Procedures Medical records of cats diagnosed with periocular CMCTs were reviewed; cats were included if CMCTs were surgically excised and the diagnosis confirmed by histopathology. The appearance, size, location and histopathology findings of CMCTs were recorded. Rates of local recurrence, metastasis, and survival time following surgical excision were collected when available. Results All periocular CMCTs were restricted to the eyelids. In addition to surgical excision, three cats were treated with adjunctive therapy (strontium-90 irradiation or cryotherapy) intraoperatively. Local tumor control was achieved in 22/23 cats with a minimum follow-up of 30 days (median follow-up time of 711 days); one cat developed disseminated CMCTs but no local recurrence. Cats with periocular CMCTs had a median survival time of 945 days. Metastatic disease involving peripheral lymph nodes or abdominal viscera was not detected in any cat at any time during the study. All periocular CMCTs were classified as low-grade based on histopathology, and complete excision was achieved in approximately 50% of cases. Conclusions Surgical excision of periocular CMCTs in cats is an effective treatment option with rare local recurrence and metastases, even following incomplete surgical excision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate the signalment, clinical signs, and etiopathogenesis of entropion in 50 cats. Methods Signalment and history of 50 cases of entropion in cats presented to a referral ophthalmology clinic. Animals were examined with direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Animals were treated surgically with a Hotz-Celsus procedure and results of surgery were evaluated between 4 and 22 weeks. Results Sixteen cats were young (mean age 4.1 ± 3.6 years) with pre-existing irritative ocular surface conditions such as conjunctivitis, corneal ulceration or sequestrum. Twenty-six cats were relatively older (mean age 11.3 ± 2.2 years) with involutional entropion with or without enophthalmos, presumed to result from a reduction in orbital tissue. Five cats were Persians with entropion associated with brachycephalic facial anatomy, whereas three were entire young adult male Maine Coones with in-turning associated with excessive facial ‘jowl’ tissue. Surgical treatment was curative in the majority of cases after one surgery although an increased amount of eyelid tissue was required to be removed for correction compared with similar surgery in the dog. Discussion This study has shown that entropion in cats may be caused in young animals as a result of continued blepharospasm related to irritative causes such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulceration or in older animals with lid laxity or globe enophthalmos. Lid in-turning was also seen in Persian and Maine Coone breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Local photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a novel cancer therapy in veterinary ophthalmology. A prospective pilot study seeking to demonstrate proof of principle and safety for the treatment of equine periocular squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) was therefore conducted. We hypothesized that surgical excision with adjunctive local PDT is an effective and safe treatment for equine PSCC. Procedures Nine horses (10 eyes) with PSCC were treated with surgical resection, local infiltration of resulting wound beds with 2-[1-hexyloxyethyl]-2-devinylpyropheophorbide-a (HPPH) and irradiation with 665-nm wavelength diode laser. Regular follow-up ophthalmic examinations were performed. Results Surgical resection and PDT yielded disease-free intervals of 25–68 months in our study horses as of January, 2008. These results were obtained following a single treatment in seven horses and two treatments in one horse. In one horse, carcinoma in situ developed 2.5 months after partial surgical excision and PDT, requiring local excision under standing sedation. Conclusions Preliminary results suggest that surgical resection and adjunctive local PDT is a safe and effective novel treatment for PSCC in horses. More research is needed before PDT for the treatment of equine PSCC can be adequately compared with other current modalities. Important to future investigations regarding PDT, tumor recurrence rate, length of hospitalization, number of treatment episodes required to effect tumor remission, and total treatment costs should be examined in a controlled manner. Our present results and experiences suggest that this treatment may be useful in the treatment of equine PSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate fornix-based suture placement as a method for entropion correction in the dog. Lower eyelid entropion with resultant trichiasis was corrected in 10 dogs using fornix-based suture placement similar to that employed in the Quickert–Rathbun technique used in man. A double-ended suture was placed originating at the deepest extent of the fornix and exiting the lid 1–2 mm from the eyelid margin. Degree of correction was assessed visually immediately after surgery and at re-examination with a follow-up period of up to 6 months. Fornix-based suture placement led to immediate eversion of the eyelid in each case and thus amelioration of the trichiasis in all dogs. In two cases eyelid eversion initially appeared over-corrected and in two cases exposure of conjunctival tissue was evident initially at the palpebral margin. In all cases, however, such complications were transient with long-term results giving an acceptable apposition between ocular surface and eyelid margin in all adult dogs. In three juvenile dogs on which the technique was used, further surgical treatment was required as the puppies grew. Fornix-based suture placement is a novel approach to entropion correction in the dog which yields acceptable results in the majority of suitable cases without recourse to incisional surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this study was to describe method of placement, and frequency and severity of complications associated with a subpalpebral lavage system placed in the medial aspect of the equine inferior eyelid. The inferomedial subpalpebral lavage (ISPL) tube is positioned deep in the medial aspect of the inferior conjunctival fornix so that the footplate lies flat between the lower eyelid and the anterior surface of the nictitans. Retrospective data from the placement of 92 ISPL systems placed in 86 horses during a 31-month period were examined. Tube placement was performed using sedation and regional anesthesia only in 59% of horses. The median duration of tube placement was 19 days (range: 1–61 days). Seventy-one horses were treated for up to 55 days following discharge from hospital with an ISPL tube in place. No complications were reported with 59% of ISPL systems. Non-ocular complications were found in 38% of ISPL systems and included tube displacement from the conjunctival fornix (18%), suture loss requiring resuturing of the system to the horse's head (14%), and damage necessitating replacement of the injection port (6%). Ocular complications were recorded in 3% of horses and were limited to inferior eyelid swelling. Vision was retained in 88% of horses. The ISPL system is easily and safely placed, and well tolerated for extended periods. It appears to be associated with infrequent and minor complications when compared with placement of subpalpebral lavage tubes in the superior eyelid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]