Melting Keratitis in Dogs and Cats

Corneal ulcersare the most common ocular disorders encountered in dogs and cats. Melting keratitis is a pathological condition of the cornea that appears when there is an imbalance between proteinases and proteinase inhibitors, components involved in corneal wound healing. Proteolytic enzymes such as collagenases are produced by some bacteria, especially Pseudomonas spp., fungi (Aspergillus spp.) and also by host neutrophils and by damaged keratocytes.There are several medical and surgical techniques that can be used in the attempt to restore corneal appearance. This article reviews the treatment options and emphasizes the need for immediate and proper therapy in order to get a good prognosis. The aim of the medical treatment is to sterilize the ulcer with topical and systemic antibiotic therapy and to inhibit the proteinases. Surgery is needed when melting is progressing to offer a support for the damaged cornea.