In animals, and most commonly reptiles and birds, Vitamin A is associated with the production of normal epithelium (the outer cell lining of skin, the respiratory tract, eyes, ears, etc). When animals are deficient in vitamin A, they undergo what is called squamous metaplasia, or in english- their epithelium develops incorrectly. This commonly leads to dry, flakey skin, eye infections, respiratory infections, ear infections, etc. You can treat these infections all you want with antibiotics, but unless you correct the underlying problem (lack of vitamin A), they will keep coming back. Unfortunately there is no test available for vitamin A deficiency, so a diagnosis is usually made based on clinical signs and dietary history. The concern with vitamin A injections is that if overdosed, there is no reversal agent. It is a fat soluble vitamin and is stored within the animals fat stores- so make sure your vet is experienced with reptiles. If signs are mild, dietary modification alone is usually sufficient. If signs are severe, such as this case might suggest, a vitamin A injection is usually quite beneficial but must be followed by diet changes as well.

There are also several other potential causes for your turtles eye problems, but your vet needs to do a physical exam and get a good history from you.

And DrTom- I'm sure you're an excellent physician and please don't be offended, but don't try to make recommendations about animals if you haven't been properly educated on them.

Good luck!

Steve

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