Facebook-f Linkedin

Corneal Sequestrum: Problem, Diagnosis and Treatment

Corneal Sequestrum: Problem, Diagnosis and Treatment Vet eye care - Veterinary Eye Specialists

What is a corneal sequestrum?

A sequestrum is a condition of the cornea which primarily affects our feline patients. A corneal sequestrum is commonly identified as a black area (although sometimes can also appear brown/amber colored at the early stages) at the surface of the eye.

This area is effectively a dead part of the cornea which can be variably uncomfortable and painful, depending on underlying complicating factors. A sequestrum is commonly seen in cats:

  • Suffering from chronic ulcers
  • Suffering from entropion and chronic irritation of the eye
  • Suffering from Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1)
  • Of certain breeds (i.e., Persian, Burmese and others)
 

Signs of a corneal sequestrum

A dark (black or brown), usually raised area seen over the surface of the eye (cornea) if the characteristic sign of a sequestrum. This is associated with discharge from the eye, pain, redness or cloudiness of the eye.
 

Diagnosis of corneal sequestrum

A sequestrum is diagnosed based on its characteristic appearance. If you can see an obvious black or brown area covering the eye of your cat and accompanying signs of pain, you need to speak to your local vets who can initially screen your pet and arrange a referral to see one of our specialists and discuss treatment options.
 

Treatment of corneal sequestrum

In most cases, a surgical procedure to remove the sequestrum under anaesthesia, often combined with a type of corneal graft is advised. These options will be discussed by one of our ophthalmologists at the time of the consultation.
 
In certain cases, when the sequestrum is very superficial and not causing severe pain, our ophthalmologists may consider using supportive topical medication to help the sequestrum “slough off”. However, this is a process that might take a long time and can be unpredictable.
 

Surgery has the highest success rate and the recovery period after the surgery is usually 10-14 days. The scarring of the cornea (surface of the eye) after the procedure can take weeks to months to disappear but cats maintain good functional vision after these procedures. It is important to stress that although the success rate of these procedures is very high (>90%), recurrence of the sequestrum can be seen and in this case your pet might require additional surgical procedures.

Complications of corneal sequestrum

Complications when left untreated lead to the sequestrum growing deeper into the cornea and causing more damage and ongoing discomfort or development of a melting corneal ulcer. Regrowth of the sequestrum can be seen following surgical removal in a small percentage of cases.

Prognosis of corneal sequestrum

The prognosis for resolution and restoration of vision is excellent in cats and long-term problems are rarely encountered.

After care

After the surgical procedure, your cat will have to wear a buster collar for a period of up to 14 days to minimise complications caused by scratching or cleaning the eye. Eye drops are part of the post-operative treatment and must be administered usually four times daily for the first 10 to 14 days. Cats should be kept indoors during this period of time.

Our mission at Vet Eye Care is providing the best care for your pets. Our ophthalmologists are able to diagnose and treat all ophthalmic conditions promptly, following a referral request from your vets. If you feel your pet will benefit from a consultation with one of our specialists, ask your general vet for a referral. Contact us today and benefit from our competitive prices.