10/27/2026
Ever heard of a corneal stromal abscess? 👀 It's a serious, deep eye infection in the stroma (a deeper layer of the eye's front tissue), often caused by bacteria or fungi entering through a scratch, puncture, or ulcer.
Signs to watch for include redness, cloudiness, squinting, swelling, and yellow or green discharge. This is considered an emergency. Prompt treatment is critical to saving the eye and preserving vision.
Treatment usually starts with very frequent eye drops to fight the infection, sometimes paired with oral medication to reduce inflammation and discomfort. An E-collar is a must to prevent rubbing or scratching. Recovery can take weeks to months depending on severity.
In more serious cases, surgery may be needed, especially if the cornea is at risk of rupturing or medical treatment alone isn't working. This often involves removing the infected tissue and placing a small graft to protect and strengthen the cornea. The prognosis for saving the eye is generally very good, though the outlook for vision depends on the size of the abscess, the graft, and any resulting scarring. Post-surgery recovery still involves eye drops, oral medication, and an E-collar.
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, don't wait! Early treatment makes all the difference.
Concerned about your pet's eye? Call us at 828-656-3937 to schedule an evaluation.
