Methods of Treatment

Treatment with antibiotics locally, either topically or subconjunctivally with a penicillin injection. As the condition can be extremely painful, support therapy with anti-inflammatory agents, with either corticosteroids or non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents (Finadyne™) is commonly practised and may be acceptable on welfare grounds. The efficacy of subconjunctival antibioitc treatment with penicillin has been questionsed by Allen et al. (1995), Sargison et al. (1998) and Eastman et al., (1996).

Milk and meat withdrawal following antibiotic treatment should be prolonged to twice the length of the statutory withdrawal. If antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents are used ex-label (even topically) the withdrawal period should be a minimum of 7 days.

Homeopathy has been recommended (Macleod, 1981; Hansford, 1992).