Goldie - Recurrent Uvietis and Enucleation
Goldie was first presented with a runny eye. Upon examination it was clear the she was suffering from a condition called uveitis.
Uveitis is a very painful inflammatory condition of the eye that can be caused by inflammatory conditions, infection or trauma to the eye. Typically horses prevent with symptoms of pain in usually one eye, but both can be affected. The eye may be swollen or closed, with excessive blinking and discharge. The eye itself may appear cloudy and the pupil may be very small. Uveitis can be treated successfully with a number of different topical eye preparations and oral medication, but the condition can often recur at a later date. Goldie was treated successfully but the condition returned after a number of months. The episodes of uveitis became more frequent and severe and a decision was made to remove the eye to prevent further suffering.
Removal of the eye was performed under general anaesthetic and the empty socket paced was gauze swabs to prevent excessive bleeding. Over a period of a few days the swab was removed from the eye socket and the wound was allowed to heal. Goldie made a good recovery. Goldie returned to full work and continued to compete as a Grade B showjumper. She has now retired to stud.
