This is an eye condition.
Goniodysgenesis and Glaucoma
What is Goniodysgenesis and Glaucoma?
Goniodysgenesis is an abnormality of the anterior chamber of the eye. The fluid that normally drains out of the eye exits through a drainage angle. With goniodysgenesis, the angle is closed and prevents the fluid of the eye from accessing its exit tract. This can lead to glaucoma, which is when high intraocular pressure occurs from the fluid build up.
What are the signs & symptoms that develop in affected dogs?
Symptoms of glaucoma can appear suddenly and quite dramatically. Affected dogs’ pupils may be abnormally dilated and the vessels on the surface of the eye may appear engorged. Your dog may also be averse to bright light, shake their head, or paw at their eyes.
When do signs and symptoms develop?
This is a disease of young dogs.
How do vets diagnose this condition?
Veterinarians perform a complete ocular exam and use a device to measure the intraocular pressure of the eye to diagnosis glaucoma. At risk dogs are often tested at their yearly exam.
How is this condition treated?
With early diagnosis, glaucoma can be managed with a variety of medical and surgical options. In severe end-stage cases, surgical removal of the affected eyes may be indicated.
What actions should I take if my dog is affected?
- While both eyes are usually affected with glaucoma, one is often affected before the other. In these cases, many studies indicate that prophylactic treatment of the unaffected eye can significantly prolong its health and vision.
- Left untreated, the unaffected eye usually develops glaucoma within a year, whereas prophylactic treatment can extend the health of the eye to two and a half times that.
