Authored By:
ANIMAL EYE SPECIALISTS, INC.
Matthew J. Chavkin, DVM, MS
- Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists
Tanja Nuhsbaum, DVM, MS
- Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists
What Is A Corneal Sequestrum?
The condition is unique to cats and is characterized by an area of corneal degeneration with brown pigmentation.
Are Certain Breeds More Likely To Develop A Corneal Sequestrum?
Yes. Persians, Himalayans, Siamese, and Burmese cats are diagnosed with the disorder most frequently. However, any breed can be affected.
What Causes A Corneal Sequestrum?
Although the cause is unknown, there is usually a history of corneal ulceration, irritation, and/ocular feline herpes virus infection.
What Are The signs Of A Corneal Sequestrum?
© Pelaqita Persians
Squinting and tearing with a brown tear-stain are common. The are of corneal degeneration appears as a brown "spot" on the surface of the eye, which can vary in size and depth in the cornea.
How Is A Corneal Sequestrum Treated?
Surgical treatment is almost always necessary.
Will The Condition Come Back?
The risk of recurrence is reduced when the entire corneal sequestrum is excised and the corneal defect is reconstructed with a grafting procedure. A sequestrum may develop in the other eye.
This article is reprinted with permission from Matthew J. Chavkin, DVM, MS, ACVO
Dr. Chavkin founded and managed the Ophthalmology Service at VRCC, where he practiced from 1994 to 2015. He is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, serves as affiliate faculty in CSU’s teaching hospital, and is a communication coach for 3rd-year veterinary students.
He is currently in practice at:
Dr. Chavkin is now with:
Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists
5910 S. University Blvd., #B4
Greenwood Village, CO 80121
(720) 500-5878
Email: [email protected]
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3550 S. Jason St.
Englewood, Colorado 80110
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