Solving Problems of Reptile Eyes and Ears

The anatomy of reptile ears and eyes differ from that of mammals, and among different reptile groups. Species predilections exist for different Problems associated with the ears of reptiles include nodular swelling, discolored tympanum, head tilt, and circling. Problems of the eyes include pronounced or frequent blinking, periorbital swelling, blepharoedema (palpebral edema), buphthalmos (enlarged globe), exophthalmos (protruding globe), enophthalmos (sunken globe), microphthalmos, ocular discharge, inability to open eyes, apparent blindness (lack of response to visual stimuli), abnormal cornea, abnormal spectacle, abnormal aqueous chamber, abnormal lens, abnormal subspectacular (sub-brillar) space, and abnormal conjunctiva. The problemsolving process begins with these clinical signs and, through a series of dichotomous steps, progresses towards the diagnoses described in this manuscript. Treatment is based on a specific diagnosis, and may include surgical and medical approaches.