Introduction
Corneal ulcers are common eye problems in dogs and cats. They can cause pain, redness, and even vision loss if not treated early. A handheld slit lamp, such as the BeneMount® SLp-04 Vet Handheld Slit Lamp, helps veterinarians view the cornea in detail and make fast, accurate diagnoses.
Why Slit Lamp Examination Matters
Corneal ulcers may look similar on the surface, but their depth and severity can differ greatly. A simple light exam may miss important details. With the BM-SL-04 handheld slit lamp, the veterinarian can focus a thin beam of light on the eye and clearly observe each corneal layer.
- Check how deep the ulcer goes
- Spot swelling or new blood vessels
- Detect early warning signs such as corneal thinning
How the Examination Works
During the exam, the animal is gently held to keep the head steady. The BM-SL-04 handheld slit lamp is placed close to the eye, and the light beam is directed across the cornea.
- Narrow beam → shows ulcer depth
- Diffuse beam → shows overall cloudiness or swelling
- Backlighting (retroillumination) → highlights hidden spots, such as small scars or deposits
The veterinarian may also use fluorescein dye. This dye sticks to damaged corneal areas and glows under blue light, making ulcer edges easy to identify.
Treatment Decisions
The slit lamp exam is not just for diagnosis—it also guides treatment choices.
- Superficial ulcers → often heal with eye drops and protective care
- Deep ulcers → may require surgery, such as grafting
- Follow-up exams → allow vets to check healing progress and adjust therapy
Using the BM-SL-04 makes it easier to track changes over time and adapt treatment plans quickly.
Conclusion
Early and accurate diagnosis is the key to saving vision in pets with corneal ulcers. The BeneMount® SLp-04 Vet Handheld Slit Lamp provides veterinarians with a reliable tool to examine the cornea, detect problems early, and guide treatment effectively.
