Ocular Ultrasonographic Features in Iranian Native Donkey

Abstract

<strong>Objective-</strong> The aim of this study was to evaluate ultrasonographic appearance of the normal eye and obtaining reference values of ocular structures in Iranian native donkey.<br /> <strong>Design-</strong> Experimental study.<br /> <strong>Animals-</strong> Five Iranian native donkeys.<br /> <strong>Procedures-</strong> After preparation of the animals, ocular structures were imaged and biometric measurements were recorded.<br /> <strong>Results-</strong> The cornea, ciliary body, anterior and posterior lens capsule, lens, anterior chamber, vitreous chamber and retrobulbar structures were studied. The ultrasonographic appearance of the donkey`s eye was generally similar to other species and especially equine eye with differences in structural measurements.<br /> <strong>Conclusion and Clinical Relevance-</strong> Ultrasonography is a valuable, non-invasive diagnostic method to evaluate ocular structures. Ultrasonography allows visualization of the intraocular and retrobulbar structures and help in diagnosis of their abnormalities but reference values are needed exclusive for every species or breed. The results of this study could help veterinary practitioners to evaluate the structural changes and pathologic conditions in the eye of Iranian native donkey.