Aberrant conjunctival overgrowth with corneal adhesions in two pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Abstract

Background

Pseudopterygium has been previously documented in rabbits. In this condition, there is a circumferential overgrowth of the conjunctiva over the cornea without adherence to the corneal surface. In contrast, focal conjunctival overgrowth with adherence to the corneal surface, pterygium, occurs in humans. Pterygium has not been reported in rabbits.

Case descriptions

Case 1, a 5-year-old, spayed female, rex rabbit, presented for an evaluation of a suspected pseudopterygium of both eyes (OU). Medical treatment was unsuccessful. Surgery was performed and partial corneal adherence was detected. The portion of conjunctiva adhered to the cornea was left in place, and the nonadhered conjunctiva was transected adjacent to this attachment and sutured into the fornix. Over the next 8 months, the left eye (OS) had mild recurrence of aberrant conjunctival overgrowth noted temporally, with adhesion to the corneal surface at its previous attachment. The axial cornea remained clear OU. Case 2, a 6.5-year-old, intact male, mixed breed rabbit, was presented for cutaneous wounds and myiasis. During the initial examination, an incidental pseudopterygium was identified OU. Upon further evaluation, corneal adhesion was identified. As the conjunctival overgrowth was not affecting the rabbit's vision, no additional treatments were pursued. The animal was lost to recheck.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This case series describes 2 cases of aberrant conjunctival overgrowth with corneal adhesions in rabbits. Although pseudopterygium without adhesions is the most common presentation in rabbits, veterinarians should be aware that corneal adhesions can occur in rabbits and it may require modifications to the surgical procedure.