Surgical Management of Bilateral Congenital Cryptophthalmos in Dizygotic Twins of Lutino Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus): A Case Report

Abstract

Cryptophthalmos is a rare congenital anomaly in birds that means "hidden eye" and generally manifests as fused eyelids that cover entirely the globe and eye socket. This report investigates a case of cryptophthalmos in two four-month-old same-hatch and gender-unknown Lutino Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus). These two birds were referred to a specialized veterinary hospital for eye disorders. The diagnosis of bilateral congenital cryptophthalmos was confirmed after performing clinical examinations and ultrasound evaluation of the eye area. Following this diagnosis, corrective eyelid surgery was recommended to the bird's owner, successfully performed and accomplished. In addition, regular washing and topical treatment of the eyes in short intervals was recommended to prevent recurrence. Clinical follow-up within three weeks after surgery showed complete recovery and no recurrence of the complication. This report emphasizes the importance of surgical interventions and aftercare to improve this anomaly successfully.