Chronic superficial keratitis is also known as pannus in dogs. This condition is immune mediated and affects the cornea (or clear part of the dog’s eye).
“Chronic superficial keratitis (CSK), also called pannus or Überreiter’s syndrome is a chronic progressive corneal disease in dogs. This autoimmune disease of unknown etiology and pathogenesis is characterized by infiltration of immune cells to corneal epithelium and stromal layers.” says the research article done by the Ankara University, department of Veterinary Surgery.
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What Is Pannus in Dogs
The cornea is the clear front most part of the eye. The first symptom that is noticed is a pink mass that forms on the cornea. Generally, it is seen on the outer side of the cornea and is thought to be a hereditary condition that occurs as the pet ages. Pannus is most seen in German Shepherds, Belgian Shepherds, Border Collies and their crosses.
A study done on hereditary eye diseases in German shepherd dogs by the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice says: “Hereditary eye diseases occur to varying degrees in all dog breeds. Individual purebred breeds have specific predispositions to various eye disorders. The German Shepherd is diagnosed mainly with chronic superficial keratitis/pannus, but also with distichiasis, plasmoma/ atypical pannus, corneal dystrophy, persistent pupillary membranes, cataract, cone degeneration, retinal dysplasia, optic nerve hypoplasia/micropapilla, and limbal melanoma.”
Pannus can progress if left untreated and eventually cause blindness in your pet. Accidents can happen at home and often do, especially if your pet’s vision is impaired. It is highly recommended that you invest in a pet camera if you are away from home for more than a few hours at a time so that you can keep a close eye on your pooch.
Early Signs of Pannus in Dogs
To diagnose pannus a few tests may be performed by your vet; such as staining the cornea with a fluorescein dye and intraocular pressure testing.
The most noticeable symptom of pannus formation is a raised pink mass on the cornea. Blood vessels then spread across the cornea noticeably, with a darkening of the colour of the cornea as the lesion increases in size and flattens and spreads out across the cornea. The eye or eyes may become red and inflamed and present with a discharge.
This can be quite uncomfortable and lead your dog to squint and paw at his/her eyes. If this condition is left untreated it can lead to blindness.
Treatment for Pannus in Dogs
When pannus first starts it is not painful, but it is important to remember that this condition can lead to blindness. It is much safer to talk to your veterinarian if you notice any problems with your dog’s eyes. Emergency Fund is so important; in this way you can be sure your pet gets the medical attention it needs, when it most needs it.
The treatment options for pannus are topical corticosteroids, immune-modulating drugs or steroid injections under the conjunctiva itself. If left untreated for a long period of time your veterinarian may refer your pooch to a veterinary ophthalmologist for further specialised treatment.
According to Armadale Veterinary Eye Hospital in Australia: “Most cases of superficial stromal keratitis can be controlled with topical corticosteroids, and only rarely is cryosurgery or superficial keratectomy required to remove excessive pigment and or granulation tissue.”
Conclusion
If left untreated pannus can lead to blindness, it is always easier to treat and manage if caught early. If you notice any problems with your dog's eye it is best to seek veterinary attention immediately.
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