Dry Eye

"Dry eye syndrome" (otherwise known as KCS: keratoconjunctivitis sicca) which has resulted from a lack of tear production. The cause of dry eye is usually unknown but some known causes include: congenital disorders (puppies), infections (canine distemper virus), drug-induced (sulfa antibiotics), and removal of the tear gland of the third eyelid ("cherry eye"). The disease is seen very commonly in certain breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Bulldog, Schnauzer, and West Highland White Terrier.

The clinical signs of dry eye include: heavy mucus production, redness, rubbing at eyes, cloudy eyes, corneal ulcers, and even general lethargy. After an extended period of dryness, the surface of the eye (cornea) begins to accumulate dark scar tissue and blood vessels - to the point of blindness in many patients. This situation is similar to having a complete layer of mud on your glasses.

Treatment goals for dry eye include stimulation of tears, lubrication, and decreasing the scar tissue. In the past few years we have had a major breakthrough in the treatment of this disease with the development of the drug Cyclosporine. This drug is about 75% effective in stimulating new tears in the dog; we never had any drug like this before! Cyclosporine HAS to be used absolutely as directed. If you skip a dose or run out of the medication, they dry eye signs will immediately recur. In addition, it is crucial that you have your dog checked as directed to monitor treatment success.