Reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests in two species of microchiroptera bats (Artibeus lituratus and Anoura caudifer).

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To establish reference values for ophthalmic tests in two bat species. BATS Fourteen bats including seven great fruit-eating bats (Artibeus lituratus) and seven tailed tailless bats (Anoura caudifer). PROCEDURES Normal values for following ophthalmic tests were investigated as follows (a) aqueous tear production using the standardized endodontic paper point tear test (EPPTT), (b) rebound tonometry, and (c) horizontal palpebral fissure length. RESULTS: Aqueous tear production was 2.53 ± 1.65 mm/min for A lituratus and 1.89 ± 0.62 for A caudifer. Intraocular pressure measured in the upright position was 11.0 ± 3.28 mm Hg for A lituratus and 7.28 ± 2.70 for A caudifer. Horizontal palpebral fissure length was 5.04 ± 0.45 mm for A lituratus and 3.92 ± 0.51 for A caudifer. CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained in the present study may serve as a reference for ophthalmic parameters and help practitioners in the diagnosis and management of eye diseases in bats, as well for future investigations about microchiroptera bats.