PIGMENTARY GLAUCOMA
First indications of disease appear when a dog is about 5 to 6 years old.
There is thickening of the iris and an increase in pigmentation in
the eye in the form of spots, only seen through ophthalmic
instruments. Over time (years) these build up and settle in the
lower part of the cornea. There is some seepage into the white of
the eye.
The channels through which the normal fluid secretions from the
eye are drained become blocked by the pigmentation spots and it is
then that pressure begins to build up in the eye. Initially the pain,
is only low but it has an adverse effect on the dog's general well
being. Removal of the eye relieves this pain.
The mode of inheritance is not known. If the gene is recessive
then dogs can be carriers without having the condition. Usually
both eyes become affected.
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