Schirmer’s Test I and determination of intraocular pressure in healthy common buzzards (Buteo buteo)

ABSTRACT

Background: The structure of the eye in wild birds is 45% larger than that in humans, which provides excellent visualcapacity but also makes them vulnerable to eye trauma. Trauma, neoplasia, infectious diseases of the ocular surface, uveitis,glaucoma, and corneal diseases in wild birds, but mainly trauma, can cause a reduction in their tear production; therefore,determining the amount of tear production in the wild birds is very important. Studies have shown that the results of theSchirmer’s tear test (STT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) values differ among wild bird species, and that both anesthesiaand sedation affects these parameters. The main objective of the present study was to determined IOP and STT I values inhealthy common buzzards (Buteo buteo).Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty healthy common buzzards were selected for the study following clinical and ophthalmic examinations. Following physical and clinical examinations of all subjects, routine ophthalmologic examinationswere conducted, including reflex examinations (pupillary, palpebral, menace, dazzle) and direct ophthalmoscopy for theeyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, iris, lens, and fundus. All examinations were conducted without anesthesia or sedation whilethe birds were in the dorsal recumbent position, and the results of STT I and IOP were recorded. Both tests were repeatedfor the right and left eyes. The mean ± SE STT I values for the right and left eyes were 12.63 ± 0.51 and 12.43 ± 0.54mm/min, respectively. A comparison between STT I values of the right and left eyes revealed no statistically significantdifferences (P > 0.620). The means and ranges of the TonoVet® IOP results for the right and left eyes were 32.06 ± 1.58and 32.60 ± 1.51 mmHg, respectively. There was no statistically significant...