ABSTRACT
Eyes can have localized lesions and also manifest clinical signs secondary to systemic diseases. Eyes also have a local immune response, which has to be kept in balance for eyes to remain clear, healthy, and sighted. Ophthalmic lesions in cetaceans and pinnipeds in the wild typically involve the cornea and are often traumatic in origin (Gerber et al. 1993; Greig, Gulland, and Kreuder 2005; Erlacher-Reid et al. 2011; Colitz, Walsh, and McCulloch 2016). Animals under human care tend to develop a variety of diseases that are influenced by their environment. Important factors include the following: increased exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation); air pollution; changes in water quality parameters including salinity, pH, imbalanced chlorine and/or ozone, as well as by-products of disinfection; and changes in coliform counts and probably other bacteria or yeasts or fungi that we do not yet monitor. Other factors that may be important and will be evaluated in the future (suggested by anecdotal reports of cases of corneal edema coincidental to or following their use; Colitz unpubl. data) include effects of parasiticides and vaccinations. Understanding all factors, and being open to others not previously considered, will improve the way in which eyes are treated through husbandry and medical management.
