DISEASES OF THE EYE. 115 



&Mau<Rosis. 



The meaning of the term amaurosis is imperfect vision, depending on 

 changes in the deeper structures of the eye. The name "gutta serena" is 

 sometimes given to the same affection, suggested by the peculiar glassy 

 appearance of the eye, which while it remains clear loses its expression 

 and becomes staring. 



The manner and staggering gait of the animal suggest dimness of sight. ' 

 Causation. — Certain forms of amaurosis maybe caused by long con- 

 tinued illnesses and other debilitating circumstances. Others may super- 

 vene upon severe digestive and liver disturbances, and possibly where 

 worms exist. 



Amam-osis sometimes arises from wounds of the head, blows, etc. Cer- 

 tain poisons can induce the affection. 



Symptoms. — In severe cases the sight becomes suddenly dim and the 

 animal is soon totally blind. More often the changes are gradual, and im- 

 pairment of vision progresses by slow degrees. The uncertain, hesitating 

 gait at first atti-acts attention. The eye then may show but little change 

 from the normal, but as the disease progresses the pupils become dilated, 

 the eye clearer and expressionless. Even when only one eye is at first 

 affected, the other eventually becomes similarly diseased through sym- 

 pathy. 



Treatment. —In certain conditions a sudden attack of amaurosis may 

 occur and be recovered from. 



In cases where the changes are by slow degrees, the chances are the 

 least encouraging. Were it possible to clearly determine the cause in 

 each instance, much might result from proper medication. 



In but a very few cases can positive indications for treatment be discov- 

 ered, and the only evident duty will be to improve the general health, and 

 treat symptoms. 



Intestinal troubles are to be overcome ; the animal treated for worms, if 

 a suspicion of their presence exists; the body sustained and nourished; 

 more and better blood generated; and a long course of iron and strych- 

 nine is advised after all known causes are remedied. 



The following pill is a combination of these drugs. — 

 R Ferri Phosphas. 3iss 

 Strychnise gr.ss 



Ft. Pil. No. xl. Sig. Dose one twice daily. 



The fact that loss of sight occurs in a number of diseases, among them 

 acute and chronic meningitis, should not be forgotten. Those affections 

 present such characteristic symptoms, the danger of confounding them 

 with amaurosis seems well nigh impossible. 



