Caracterización citológica del globo ocular en canis lupus familiaris con queratoconjuntivitis seca en la ciudad de Machala.

Abstract

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is an eye disease characterized by decreased tear production and the development of an abnormal tear film, leading to dry eyes. This condition is common in canines and can cause significant discomfort, corneal ulcers and even vision loss if not properly treated. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage this condition and minimize its effects on the ocular health of affected animals. Therefore, the objectives of this research were to relate patients with keratoconjunctivitis sicca to factors such as age, sex and cranial morphology, as well as to establish cellular morphological parameters characteristic of patients with KCS. In order to carry out the present study, samples were taken from 41 canines positive for keratoconjunctivitis sicca being more prone those older than 7 years with 41%, in second place, the canines between 4 and 7 years with 39% and finally the canines between 1 and 4 years with 20%. Regarding the sex variable, 51% were males and 49% were females. Cranial morphology was also considered, obtaining 76% in mesocephalics and 24% in brachycephalics. As for cytology the cellular parameters determined were the presence of mucin obtaining 88%, degenerative epithelial cells 54%, neutrophils 56%, keratinized cells 41% and finally the presence of bacteria 20%. These results helped to classify the disease into acute and chronic with a significant relevance of acute QCS with 54%. These findings confirm that those canines with an age superior to 7 years are more prone to present marked features of the disease due to the deterioration of the organ, the morphology of the skull in question did not involve mostly brachycephalic as the canines in matter of breed having a more satisfactory care by their owners, the sex of the animals did not have an inclination in significance; Therefore, it is recommended that the importance of checking the eyes as part of the physical examination should not be overlooked in order to avoid that possible alterations are presented and do not have a management causing damage in the long term, promoting good living.