Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
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Keratoconjunctivitis sicca. (KCS) is the technical term for a condition also known as "dry eye." Inadequate tear production is the cause. This may be due to injuries to the tear glands, such as infections or trauma. The nerves of these glands may also become damaged. Eye infections and reactions to drugs such as sulfonamides can impair the nerves and/or the glands. Some cases are also the result of the gland of the third eyelid being surgically removed by mistake. Many cases have no known cruise; the glands simply cease to function at their normal levels. What are the
symptoms? Wheat are the risks? What is the
management? Artifical tear solutions available for humans and sold in pharmacies can be used in canines. Depending on the severity, these drops are placed in the eyes at regular intervals throughout the day. These artifical tears provide the needed lubrication and flushing for the corneas. Antibiotic preparations are often used simultaneously to provide protection from bacterial organisms. Recently drugs such as Cyclosporine have been utilized to actually stimulate more tear production. The use of Cyclosporine has been quite successful in the management, of this disorder. In very severe cases, a surgery can be performed which transplants a salivary duct into the upper eyelid area. Saliva then drains into the eye, providing lubrication. This procedure is rarely used, but is an option. Veterinarians use a small piece of absorbent material called a Schirmer tear test strip to help in measuring tear production. This small strip is placed inside the lower eyelid. Over a measured period of time, usually one minute, the tears soak and migrate up the strip. The wet area of the strip is then measured and compared to normal values. Abnormal tear production with the associated signs of a red eye with a lot of discharge can occur in several diseases.
© 2000 Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
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