Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Small Ruminant Research, cilt.260, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Ophthalmic disorders in small ruminants necessitate reliable diagnostic standards, yet reference intervals for ocular parameters in indigenous breeds remain limited. This study aimed to establish baseline values for Schirmer tear test (STT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and central corneal thickness (CCT) in healthy Akkaraman sheep, a predominant fat-tailed breed raised primarily in Türkiye and also widely distributed across the Mesopotamian region. Fifty clinically healthy Akkaraman sheep, aged 1–8 years, were subjected to comprehensive ophthalmological and general examinations. Tear production was quantified using STT strips, IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer (TonoVet®), and CCT was assessed via ultrasonic pachymetry following topical anesthesia. All measurements were performed bilaterally during daylight hours by a single examiner to minimize variability. Statistical analyses were conducted using parametric and non-parametric tests, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. The mean ± SD values for the left and right eyes were as follows: STT, 15.10 ± 2.41 and 14.72 ± 2.60 mm/min (p = 0.09); IOP, 15.68 ± 2.70 and 15.54 ± 2.46 mmHg (p = 0.56); and CCT, 608.50 ± 38.20 and 605.62 ± 35.85 µm (p = 0.30). No statistically significant interocular differences were identified for any of the measured parameters. This is the first report establishing reference values for STT, IOP, and CCT in Akkaraman sheep. The findings indicate breed-specific variations compared to previously reported values in other ovine breeds. These data provide a foundation for accurate clinical diagnosis of ocular diseases in Akkaraman sheep and support their use in comparative ophthalmology.