Both corneas of each dog were irradiated with soft X-rays (15 kV), to a total dose of 30 Gy, administered as two fractions over 48–96 h.
Treatment was carried out under deep sedation in all dogs.
Three dogs were treated by superficial lamellar keratectomy 48 h prior to radiotherapy.
Changes in the extent of corneal pigmentation, pigment density and corneal vascularization were documented using a semi-quantitative grading scheme, schematic drawings and clinical photographs.
Results: Only minor, transient adverse effects of treatment, such as photophobia, epiphora and blepharitis were noted.
Overall the effect of soft X-rays on the course of the keratitis was superior when compared to the effect of Sr-90 irradiation that had been determined in a previous study.
Conclusion: Soft X-ray irradiation combined with keratectomy is a safe and effective new treatment option for severe and advanced CSK with significant visual impairment due to corneal pathology.
Source: Ingrid Allgoewer, Stefan Hoecht (2010): Radiotherapy for canine chronic superficial keratitis using soft X-rays (15 kV). In: Veterinary Ophthalmology
Volume 13 Issue 1, Pages 20 - 25
Published Online: 13 Jan 2010
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