Usefulness of aerobic microbial culture and cytologic evaluation of corneal specimens in the diagnosis of infectious ulcerative keratitis in animals.

The research evaluates the diagnostic value of aerobic microbial culture and cytologic assessment of corneal samples for detecting infectious ulcerative keratitis in animals.

Objective of the Research

• The research aimed to ascertain the efficacy and diagnostic utility of aerobic microbial culture and cytologic evaluation of corneal specimens in diagnosing infectious ulcerative keratitis (IUK) in animals.

Methods used in the Research

• The study prospectively followed 48 animals, comprising 26 dogs, 13 horses, 7 cats, 1 bird, and 1 llama, all presenting with corneal ulcers.
• Corneal ulcer scrapings from these animals were examined cytologically to assess cell structures and formations.
• Corneal swabs were also taken from these animals for microbial culture to detect the presence of bacteria, signifying infection.
• The animals were divided into groups based on whether they had been receiving antimicrobials at the time of admission.

Results of the Research

• Of the 38 animals that were receiving antimicrobials, 19 tested positive for IUK on cytologic evaluation, 20 on microbial culture, and 26 were positive for IUK either on cytologic evaluation, microbial culture or both.
• Of the 10 animals not receiving antimicrobials at the time of admission, 7 tested positive for IUK on cytologic evaluation, while 9 were positive on microbial culture. No additional animals with IUK were identified based on cytologic evaluation alone.
• When considering all 48 animals, irrespective of their antimicrobial treatment status, 26 and 29 had positive results for IUK on cytologic evaluation and microbial culture respectively, while IUK was confirmed in 35 animals based on cytologic evaluation, microbial culture results, or both.

Conclusions of the Research

• The study concludes that to optimally identify IUK, especially in animals receiving antimicrobial treatment, both microbial culture and cytologic evaluation of corneal specimens are invaluable.
• Due to the severe impact of untreated IUK on the animal’s vision, the researchers recommend using both diagnostic tests to customise treatment and minimise the risk of vision impairment.