Survey of ocular abnormalities in a population of Turkmen horses.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to detect and describe ocular abnormalities in a population of Turkmen horses.

ANIMALS STUDIED: A total of 55 Turkmen horses (33 mares and 22 stallions) from one herd were evaluated in this study.

PROCEDURE(S): Demographic data (Age, Sex, Coat color) were recorded. All animals underwent complete ophthalmic examination. The Schirmer tear test -I (STT-I) was performed for all horses prior to other diagnostic tests. Neuro-ophthalmic examinations (menace response, dazzle reflex, pupillary light reflex, maze test, and visual tracking) were carried out in different lighting situations (bright and dim lights). Slit lamp biomicroscopy, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein staining, and tonometry were performed for each horse.

RESULTS

The mean (standard deviation) age of horses was 5.7 (4.6) years (range of 1-17 years). In total, 18 horses (32.7%) had ocular-related lesions. Cataract, iris hyperpigmentation and corneal edema were the most identified conditions in the horses of this study.

CONCLUSIONS

About one-third of studied horses had at least one ocular abnormality. No ocular abnormalities attributed to the distinct cream/gold coat color were identified, which the Turkmen horse is known for.