Chronic Superficial Keratitis (Pannus) in Dogs: Causes & Treatment

Chronic Superficial Keratitis, often called Pannus, is a progressive immune-driven inflammatory disease that affects a dog’s cornea. It commonly occurs in breeds like the German Shepherd, though other susceptible breeds include the Airedale Terrier, Greyhound, and Belgian Malinois. This condition causes new blood vessels and scar tissue to grow on the cornea, creating cloudiness that can severely impair vision over time.

Understanding Chronic Superficial Keratitis: An Immune-Mediated Eye Disease

Pannus is thought to be an immune system disorder where a dog’s body mistakenly attacks its own cornea. Genetics are a significant factor, especially in breeds such as German Shepherds, which are known to be most predisposed. Environmental triggers like ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, particularly in areas of higher altitude such as Colorado or the Rocky Mountain region, can worsen or prompt the development of this disease.

For instance, dogs living in sunny, elevated regions of the United States face a higher risk of pannus, and these cases often require more vigilant and aggressive management by veterinarians.

Breeds Most Susceptible to Chronic Superficial Keratitis

Certain dog breeds carry a higher genetic risk for developing Chronic Superficial Keratitis. These include:

• German Shepherd
• Airedale Terrier
• Greyhound
• Miniature Pinscher
• Siberian Husky
• Belgian Malinois
• Labrador Retriever
• Border Collie

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the precise cause is not fully understood, several key factors contribute to the condition:

• Genetics: Specific breeds have inherited vulnerabilities that increase risk.
• Immune system malfunction: The dog’s immune system mistakenly targets the cornea.
• Ultraviolet light exposure: Prolonged sun exposure, especially at higher altitudes, can trigger or amplify symptoms.

Identifying Signs and Symptoms Early

Spotting the condition early is crucial to protecting your dog's eyesight. Watch for symptoms like:

• A cloudy or opaque appearance of the cornea.
• Brownish, pinkish, or reddish discoloration around the eye, often beginning at the outer edges.
• Growth of blood vessels invading the usually clear corneal surface.
• Progressive damage spreading across the eye that can eventually cause blindness in severe cases.

If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to see a veterinarian promptly, as early treatment can dramatically slow disease progression.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Chronic Superficial Keratitis

A thorough eye exam by a veterinary ophthalmologist is necessary for diagnosis. Additional diagnostic procedures might include blood tests or corneal cytology to confirm inflammation and immune system involvement. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention that can protect vision longer term.

Approaches to Treatment

There is no cure for Pannus, but treatments aim to reduce inflammation and preserve eyesight:

• Anti-inflammatory corticosteroid eye drops or ointments: These suppress immune activity and calm inflammation.
• Topical immunomodulators: Medications such as cyclosporine that control immune responses with fewer side effects than steroids.
• Surgery: Occasionally used if medical therapy does not achieve control, though results may vary and recurrence is common.

Consistency with treatment is vital. Never abruptly stop medications as this can cause flare-ups and worsen corneal damage.

Helping Your Dog Live Well with Pannus

To manage Chronic Superficial Keratitis effectively, maintain regular visits to your veterinarian for ongoing monitoring and treatment adjustments. Shield your pet’s eyes from UV rays by providing shaded areas during walks or considering specially designed UV-blocking dog goggles, which are popular in sunny states like Arizona or California.

If vision loss occurs, creating a safe and familiar home environment will help your dog adapt comfortably.

FAQ: How Is Chronic Superficial Keratitis Diagnosed and Managed?

Brief Answer: Diagnosis involves a clinical eye exam and possibly blood tests, followed by lifelong use of topical immunosuppressants to manage inflammation.

Veterinary specialists base diagnosis on physical signs such as pigmentation and blood vessel growth in the cornea, combined with breed predisposition. Corneal lesion cytology can detect immune cell involvement. Treatment typically consists of corticosteroid or cyclosporine eye drops applied regularly to slow disease progression, alongside steps to minimize UV exposure. Early diagnosis and lifelong treatment greatly enhance quality of life and reduce blindness risk.