Fluorescein Stain: Diagnosing Eye Issues in Your Pet – Dr. Carlos Sandrea, Veterinarian

Is your pet experiencing eye discomfort? Redness, discharge, or squinting can be signs of a problem. At the Animal Hospital of Dr. Carlos Sandrea, serving Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida communities, we utilize advanced diagnostic tools like fluorescein staining to accurately identify and treat a variety of eye conditions in your beloved companions.

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What is Fluorescein Staining?

Fluorescein staining is a safe and effective diagnostic procedure used to detect damage to the surface of the eye, specifically the cornea (the clear front part) and conjunctiva (the membrane lining the eyelids and covering the white of the eye). A harmless, orange dye (fluorescein) is applied to the eye. When a special blue light is shone into the eye, any damaged areas will glow a bright green, highlighting ulcers, abrasions, or other irregularities that might not be visible under normal light.

Why Would My Pet Need a Fluorescein Stain?

Fluorescein staining is a valuable tool for diagnosing a range of eye problems in pets, including:

  • Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the cornea, often caused by trauma, infection, or dry eye.
  • Corneal Abrasions: Scratches on the cornea, usually resulting from minor injuries.
  • Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca – KCS): A condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears, leading to dryness and potential damage.
  • Foreign Objects: To help visualize and remove small particles lodged in the eye.
  • Glaucoma: While not directly diagnosing glaucoma, fluorescein staining can be helpful in evaluating certain types of glaucoma and monitoring corneal health.
  • Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, sometimes caused by allergies, infections, or other irritants.

What to Expect During the Procedure:

The fluorescein staining procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated by most pets. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Eye Examination: Dr. Sandrea will perform a thorough examination of your pet’s eyes.
  2. Dye Application: A small amount of the fluorescein dye is applied to the eye, usually in the form of drops.
  3. Blue Light Examination: Dr. Sandrea will use a special blue light to examine your pet’s eye. Any damaged areas will fluoresce green, revealing the extent of the problem.
  4. Diagnosis and Treatment: Based on the results of the fluorescein stain and other diagnostic findings, Dr. Sandrea will develop a personalized treatment plan for your pet.

Benefits of Fluorescein Staining:

  • Early Detection: Allows for early detection of corneal damage, enabling prompt treatment and preventing further complications.
  • Accurate Diagnosis: Helps Dr. Sandrea accurately diagnose the cause of your pet’s eye discomfort.
  • Non-Invasive: A simple and non-invasive procedure.
  • Painless: The dye itself does not cause any pain or discomfort.

Contact Us Today!

If your pet is showing signs of eye discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact the Animal Hospital of Dr. Carlos Sandrea. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care to pets in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida area. Schedule an appointment today to have your pet’s eyes examined and discuss if fluorescein staining is appropriate.

Serving Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida