I nternational J ournal of V eterinary S cience
This case report describes the remission of the fibrovascular corneal lesions in both eyes after bilateral superficial keratectomy combined with medical treatment in a German Shepherd dog. A completely blind German Shepherd dog diagnosed with chronic superficial keratitis (CSK, pannus) underwent bilateral superficial keratectomy along with subconjunctival administration of 0.1 mL of bevacizumab and mitomycin C, which where topically applied over the degenerated area of the cornea. Following the surgical procedure, cyclosporine topical ointment was given daily as life-long therapy. Notable improvements in behavior and physical activity were evident in the patient three to four weeks after the treatment. During a follow-up period over 24 months, complete remission of the fibrovascular corneal lesions was observed in both eyes, with minor seasonal conjunctival hyperemia successfully managed by administering dexamethasone and mitomycin C eye drops. This is the first report of using this specific combination of drugs during and after keratectomy in the dog, resulting in remission of CSK with no reported side effects. Superficial keratectomy, along with the administration of bevacizumab via subconjunctival injection, may present a novel approach for addressing superficial corneal neovascularization in dogs.