Control of ocular inflammation.

Although both topical and systemic anti-inflammatory agents have a place in veterinary ophthalmology, they play only a small role in overall patient management. They must be used appropriately to prevent ocular damage and loss of vision from inflammation and are not a replacement for a complete ophthalmic examination and specific treatment directed at the etiology of the problem. If used indiscriminately, they can result in local or systemic side effects or toxicities, many of which are worse than the initial problem for which they were selected. Just as topical corticosteroids are contraindicated with infectious keratitis, so are systemic corticosteroids contraindicated in patients with ocular inflammation resulting from a systemic infectious process. Anti-inflammatories must be used at the appropriate dosage and frequency. Use of corticosteroids that have low intraocular penetration for intraocular disease or corticosteroids with low potency is a waste of time and money. The most expensive medication is one that does not work. Avoid combination therapies when only a single medication is required. These do not save time or money and have the potential to result in the development of drug-related diseases. Diseases for which anti-inflammatory therapy has little or no indication include corneal scars, corneal edema, corneal pigmentation, corneal dystrophy, cataracts without inflammation, glaucoma, and retinal atrophy and degeneration. Last, remember that all commercially available ophthalmic medications are specifically formulated for use in the eye. Their pH, concentration, osmolality, and melting temperature all are designed to facilitate penetration. The use of dermal and otic preparations to treat ophthalmic problems is contraindicated.