Equine keratomycosis

Equine keratomycosis is a severe disease, difficult to manage a nd always c arrying a grave prognosis. Eyes may be lost due to fungal keratitis. Kerato mycosis must be ruled out in every case of stromal keratitis, especially af ter previous glucocorticoid therapy. Corneal cytology is best suited to ide ntify fungal elements. Degenerating fungi release endotoxins which ca use a dramatic exacerbation of the accompanying uveitis. It is therefore mandato ry to combine antifungal thera py with topical and systemic nonsteroidal an tiinflammatory drugs. To decrease the load of fungi vigorous debridement an d/or keratectomy is indicated. Deep stromal mycosis often necessitates conj unctival pedicle grafts or penetrating keratoplasties. The relevant literat ure is reviewed. Based on 18 cases seen between 1991 and 1999 in our clinic clinical signs, diagnosis and management of equine keratomycosis are discu ssed.