What pathology is indicated by the presence of neovascularization starting at the limbus?

The presence of neovascularization starting at the limbus is an important clinical sign indicative of Proliferative/Eosinophilic Keratitis. This condition is characterized by an abnormal growth of blood vessels from the limbal area into the cornea, often due to chronic inflammation and irritation. In cases of Proliferative Keratitis, the limbus becomes the site from which these new blood vessels arise as a response to corneal damage or disease.

This pathology is often seen in various breeds of dogs, particularly in response to environmental factors or underlying chronic keratitis. The presence of eosinophils during microscopic examination of the affected tissue is a hallmark of this condition, further confirming the diagnosis.

Cataract formation, glaucoma, and retinal detachment do not typically present with limbal neovascularization. Cataracts refer to opacification of the lens, glaucoma involves increased intraocular pressure which can lead to optic nerve damage, and retinal detachment is a separation of the retina from the underlying tissues, none of which inherently cause vascular growth from the limbus to the cornea. Thus, understanding the specific mechanism and manifestation associated with neovascularization at the limbus is crucial in diagnosing Proliferative/Eosinophilic Keratitis