Trouble on the Surface: Treating Infected Corneal Ulcers

Infectious corneal ulcers are vision-threatening conditions that require timely recognition and appropriate intervention to achieve the best possible outcomes. This session will provide attendees with a practical framework for diagnosing and managing infected corneal ulcers. Participants will review ophthalmic examination techniques and diagnostic tools used to differentiate infected ulcers from non-infected corneal ulcers and other corneal disorders. The session will cover key indicators of infection, selection of appropriate medical therapies, and available treatment strategies based on disease severity. Common management pitfalls and contraindicated treatments will also be discussed. In addition, attendees will learn how to identify cases that require advanced surgical intervention, recognize end-stage ocular disease, and determine when referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist is indicated. Upon completion, participants will have greater confidence in the assessment, treatment, and referral of patients with infected corneal ulcers.

• Recognition of an infected corneal ulcer
• Starting appropriate medical management for infected corneal ulcers
• Understanding what to avoid with infected corneal ulcer
• Knowing when to refer to a veterinary ophthalmologist