CONJUNCTIVITIS 517 



Follicular Conjunctivitis. Definition. An inflammation of 

 the conjunctiva characterized by the formation of small, 

 granular elevations over its surface. These granulations are 

 due to swelling of the lymph follicles and to connective 

 tissue proliferation, the result of inflammation. The granu- 

 lations often attain the size of a grain of millet or larger. 

 Follicular conjunctivitis occurs usually on the inner surfa' 

 of the membrana nictitans. In a large number of dog^ 

 examined, nearly one-half were found to be affected with , 

 this disease. House dogs seem more susceptible than others. 



Etiology. The cause is unknown. Many etiological 

 factors have been accused, such as dirt, dust and other 

 irritants which enter the eye. Undoubtedly many cases 

 result from distemper. 



Symptoms. As such a large number of dogs are affected 

 with enlarged lymph follicles on the membrana nictitans one 

 is led to conclude that their presence may not be abnormal. 

 However, in many cases the granules appear also over the 

 entire conjunctiva leading often to ectropion, an outward 

 rolling of the eyelids. On examination the mucous mem- 

 brane will be found to be of a dull red color and irregular on 

 the surface. Small, white granules at their apices stand out 

 quite prominently over the membrane. The membrana 

 nictitans, when elevated with the forceps, will disclose small 

 elevations on its under surface. In case of long standing the 

 palpebral margins become red and the small glands prominent. 

 There is some lacrimation and frequently a discharge of pus 

 from the inner canthus. During the later stage small ulcers 

 appear on the apices of the granulations, which, by confluence, 

 form large, ulcerated surfaces. The eyes, kept partly closed 

 and rubbed with the paw r s, show evidence of irritation and 

 pain. 



Prognosis. The prognosis is not very favorable because 

 the disease is usually well developed before the animal shows 

 any marked symptoms. Owing to the chronic character of 

 the disease the course is protracted requiring long continued 

 treatment. 



Treatment. A thorough examination should be made of 

 the entire conjunctiva in order to determine the extent of 



