What is a sequestrum?
Corneal sequestra are unique to cats and are pigmented lesions that develop on the surface of the eye. They can range from light brown ‘tea-stain’ like lesions to dark, scab like lesions and in some cases can cause significant discomfort.
Clinical Signs
- Pigment visible on the surface of the eye
- Squinting
- Watery eye
- Red eye
- Corneal ulceration
What causes sequestra to develop?
Sequestra represent areas of necrotic (non-viable) corneal tissue and although the exact cause is unknown, they often develop following corneal ulceration. Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is also thought to be associated with sequestra formation. Cats of any breed can be affected however breeds such as Burmese, Persians and Siamese cats are overrepresented.
What causes sequestra to develop?
Surgical removal is the treatment of choice and depending upon how deep the lesion is corneal grafting may be required to stabilise the cornea and minimise the risk of recurrence. Long-term medication in the form of hyaluronate-based lubrication is recommended in order to maintain the health of the corneal surface. Other factors such as entropion (in rolling of eyelids) or excessive nasal folds may also need to be corrected to reduce the risk of recurrence.
