Evaluation of Subconjunctival Cyclosporine Implantation to Treat Chronic Superficial Keratitis in Dogs

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate subconjunctival cyclosporine implantation (SCI) to treat chronic superficial keratitis (CSK) in dogs.

Methods

Patients with CSK that underwent SCI under sedation were identified. Treatment efficacy was determined by lack of corneal granulation, improved or normal corneal transparency and normal functional vision. Need for adjunctive subconjunctival triamcinolone therapy and client satisfaction based on verbal feedback were evaluated.

Results

Six German shepherds and one greyhound (14 eyes) with CSK underwent SCI with an average age of 3.8 years (range 2–6 years) and average follow‐up of 10mo (range 5–28mo). Topical therapy was not utilized in any case during the follow‐up period. Initially, severe disease was present in 5/14 eyes (36%), moderate disease was present in 7/14 eyes (50%), and mild disease was present in 2/14 eyes (14%). SC was repeated once in two dogs at 10 and 12 months and twice in one dog both 10 months apart when signs of active CSK recurred. CSK remains controlled in the remaining dogs in which SCI was performed (<9mo since SCI). Adjunctive subconjunctival triamcinolone therapy was necessary in 5/14 eyes (36%) 6–12 months after SCI. All dogs maintain normal functional vision with no corneal granulation and improved corneal transparency after SCI. Client satisfaction was very high based on verbal feedback and clients electing to pursue implant replacement.

Conclusions

SCI is a viable treatment option for CSK and eliminates the need for daily topical therapy. Periodic steroid therapy may be necessary for complete disease control. Client satisfaction is very high with SCI. None

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Keywords: canine, subconjunctival cyclosporine implantation dogs, chronic superficial keratitis treatment dogs, canine keratitis cyclosporine implant, SCI for CSK in dogs, German shepherd keratitis therapy, veterinary ophthalmology keratitis, dog eye disease treatment cyclosporine, canine corneal disease management, keratitis implant therapy dogs, alternative to topical cyclosporine dogs