Results of Schirmer tear test in clinically normal llamas (Lama glama).

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine the normal reference range for Schirmer tear test (STT) values in clinically normal llamas (Lama glama) ANIMALS: Nine captive llamas (Lama glama) (seven females and two males) were used in this study. PROCEDURE: Complete ophthalmic examinations were performed without chemical restraint. STT I values were evaluated in both eyes of all llamas using a commercial STT strip of a single lot number (Schirmer-Tränentest(®), Germany). STT II value was also measured in both eyes of seven female llamas. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences among ages or between right and left eyes were found for any of the results. The mean ± SD STT I of 18 eyes of nine llamas was 17.3 ± 1.1 mm/min (Range 15-19 mm/min). The mean ± SD STT II of 14 eyes of seven llamas was 15.4 ± 1.7 mm/min (Range 12.5-17.5 mm/min). A paired samples t-test demonstrated that there was a significant difference between the STT I and II values (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study provides novel data for normal reference ranges of STT I and II values in healthy llamas. Results of this study may assist veterinarians in the diagnosis of ocular surface disease and syndromes affecting the tear film in these species.