In dogs with microphthalmia, the eyeball will appear smaller than normal for the breed. This disorder is due to a mutation in the RBP4 gene and genetic testing is available. Because the eye has failed to form normally, several other eye structures also fail to form which can cause secondary issues. Signs of visual impairment will also be noticed. Dogs may act blind in one or both eyes, have a small eyelid opening, have cloudy eyes or just have eyes that don’t appear normal. Some dogs may have visual impairment when they are born while others may develop issues over time due to the abnormal eye structure. Most dogs have one eye that is affected, but some dogs may have the condition in both eyes. Australian Shepherds, Great Danes, Beagles, Collies, Borzoi, Dobermans, Sealyham Terriers, Bedlington Terriers, Portuguese Water Dogs, Shelties, Akitas, Miniature Schnauzer, Labrador Retrievers, Dachshunds and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are all breeds at greater risk of developing the condition.
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of your dog. Your veterinarian will also take a history of what has been going on at home and will ask about the parents of your dog as well. Your veterinarian will perform a thorough ophthalmic exam and look for any eye structure issues. If your dog has a small eye, a diagnosis can be made.
There is no treatment for the condition itself. Secondary conditions may require treatment. Cost for these will depend on the specific condition being treated.
Microphthalmia is a permanent condition.
Your veterinarian will discuss a recommended schedule to recheck your dog based on their findings and the severity of the condition.
There is no prevention for this condition. Because it is an inherited trait, dogs with microphthalmia should not be used for breeding and should be spayed or neutered to ensure they do not pass this trait to others
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