J Vet Sci.  2023 Sep;24(5):e66. 10.4142/jvs.23059.

Treatment of immune-mediated keratitis (IMMK) in dogs with immunosuppressants observed with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT)

• Kim H
• Jeong Y
• Lee E
• Seo K
• Kang S

• KMID: 2546827
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4142/jvs.23059

Abstract

Two dogs presented with bilateral pattern-forming corneal opacity. Treatment with topical immunosuppressants was initiated after a complete ophthalmic examination. The response to treatment was assessed by analyzing serial images using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Both dogs responded to topical immunosuppressants; however, the lesions recurred once the treatment was abated or withdrawn. The most effective immunosuppressant in both dogs was 0.03% tacrolimus ointment. Early and continuous treatment with topical immunosuppressants may be necessary to improve corneal clarity and prevent scarring. SD-OCT could provide useful structural information regarding presumed immune-mediated keratitis and aid in monitoring treatment response.

Keyword

Canine disease; corneal opacity; keratopathy; stromal corneal dystrophy; tacrolimus