Equine uveitis: Outcome and adverse effects after one or two intravitreal low-dose gentamicin injections.
Authors: Morén S, Kallberg M, Strom L
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Low-Dose Intravitreal Gentamicin for Equine Uveitis Chronic equine uveitis represents a significant clinical challenge, as conventional anti-inflammatory therapy frequently requires prolonged systemic or topical treatment with cumulative side effects, whilst many cases progress to vision loss or blindness despite intervention. Mörén and colleagues evaluated the efficacy and safety profile of intravitreal low-dose gentamicin (IVGI) injections—administered as either a single or repeated dose—in horses with uveitis, assessing both clinical outcomes and adverse ocular effects over a defined follow-up period. The findings demonstrate that this targeted antimicrobial approach offers a viable alternative strategy for managing recurrent or chronic uveitis, potentially reducing dependence on systemic therapeutics, though the paper provides important detail on the frequency and nature of complications that warrant careful case selection and informed client consent. For practitioners managing equine uveitis cases that have proven refractory to conventional protocols or in patients intolerant of systemic medications, IVGI injection warrants consideration as part of the therapeutic arsenal, particularly given the anatomical advantage of delivering high local drug concentrations whilst minimising systemic exposure. Further evidence comparing IVGI outcomes against conventional long-term management in prospective cohorts would help clarify optimal patient selection criteria and timing of intervention in the chronic uveitis pathway.
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Practical Takeaways
- •IVGI may offer an alternative approach for horses with chronic or recurrent uveitis that require long-term treatment, potentially reducing the burden of frequent systemic medication
- •Practitioners should consider monitoring for both therapeutic outcomes and potential adverse effects when using intravitreal gentamicin injections
- •This technique could help preserve vision and reduce treatment-related complications in horses with persistent uveitis
Key Findings
- •Intravitreal low-dose gentamicin injections were evaluated as a treatment option for chronic equine uveitis
- •Study examined outcomes and adverse effects following one or two IVGI injections
- •Treatment aimed to provide long-lasting anti-inflammatory effects with reduced systemic side effects compared to conventional long-term therapeutics