The Pre-Purchase Exam – The Eyes Have It!

These flashcards cover the key concepts and considerations discussed in the lecture on pre-purchase eye examinations for horses.

What is the importance of a good eye exam in a pre-purchase exam?

It is critical as sellers may be unaware of eye problems that could affect the horse's value and serviceability.

What should be considered regarding the environment during an eye exam?

Location (inside vs. outside), degree of ambient illumination, and timing.

What physical aspects should be observed during a pre-purchase eye exam?

Symmetry, reflexes, adnexal structures, and the anterior segment.

What are key elements to check during a complete ophthalmic exam?

Menace response, dazzle response, PLRs, and palpebral reflex.

What is the first step in performing a thorough eye exam?

Perform an A-P block.

What structures are inspected during the eye exam?

Orbit, adnexa, symmetry, globe size, and position.

What should be inspected on the eyelids?

Check for trauma and tumors.

What should be observed when examining the cornea?

Transparency, scars, surface irregularities, and blood vessels.

What does checking the anterior chamber involve?

Looking for flare and inspecting the iris.

What should be observed about the horse during a pre-purchase exam?

Its motion, reactions to objects, and ability to navigate obstacles.

What are the potential checks for the lens?

Presence of cataracts and subluxation.

What is assessed regarding the vitreous during the eye exam?

Clarity and presence of debris.

What are the essentials of the fundus examination?

Check for scarring, retinal, and optic nerve abnormalities.

Why is pupil dilation important in a complete eye exam?

It allows for a more thorough examination after riding.

What should the written report of findings include?

A very descriptive account that can serve as a baseline for future comparisons.

When is the best time for a pre-purchase exam?

When the buyer is present to understand and review issues.

What do the AAEP guidelines state regarding suitability opinions?

The veterinarian should not express opinions on the horse's suitability; that is the buyer's responsibility.

What key factors should be interpreted in lesion findings?

Effect on ocular structure, globe, vision, performance, comfort, and need for therapy.

What signifies unequivocal findings in a pre-purchase exam?

Conditions like sarcoids, entropion, strabismus, and various cataracts.

What are some uncertain significance findings during an eye exam?

Small focal corneal scars and pigment deposits on the cornea without other ocular abnormalities.

What variants or minor blemishes might be found during an eye exam?

Healed small notches in tarsal margin, small iris colobomas, and heterochromia iridis.

How might horses with bad behavior be assessed?

They may be brought to specialists, but often their eyes are healthy, and behavior issues stem from other factors.

What should you consider regarding the cornea during an examination?

Location of the issue within the cornea and its active or previous disease status.

What questions should be addressed when evaluating cataracts?

Are they developmental or acquired? Their location and impact on vision?

What are the types of vitreous conditions that can be assessed?

Embryonic remnants, inflammatory conditions, or degeneration.

What are characteristics of senile retinopathy?

Changes associated with aging that can impact vision.

What is the advised approach when conducting a pre-purchase eye exam?

Ensure appropriate surroundings, work in the dark, and be patient.

Why is pharmacologic mydriasis used in examinations?

To facilitate a better view for thorough eye assessments.

What is a crucial element for successful assessment during the eye exam?

Being thorough and meticulous in observing all findings.

What is the overall take-home message from the lecture?

Accurate assessment of findings on the globe and vision is crucial.