Microphthalmia in Dogs

Microphthalmia

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Updated on September 26, 2024
SUMMARY OF CONTENT
Microphthalmia is a condition in which the eyeball is smaller than normal.
SEVERITY:
Moderate

  • Diagnosis Icon
    Requires a diagnosis by a veterinarian
  • Time to Cure
    There is no cure or resolution
  • Treatment Icon
    Treatable by a veterinarian for some secondary issues, microphthalmia itself is not treatable
  • Prevention Icon
    There is no prevention for this condition.
  • Spread Icon
    Transmission is not possible between animals and not possible between animals and people
  • Lab Icon
    Diagnosis requires physical examination

Symptoms & Signs

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

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.

Causation

The eyeball is comprised of several structures, including the cornea, iris, lens, anterior and posterior chambers, and the retina. The eyeball is located within the bony socket of the head and is partially protected by the three eyelids. Usually the internal structures of the eyeball are abnormal as well. Microphthalmia is an inherited, congenital trait. Microphthalmia can occur in newborns whose mothers received certain medications during pregnancy.

Treatments

icon AT-HOME CARE
None
icon SUPPORTIVE CARE
If your dog is visually impaired, they will need help navigating around their home. Make sure stairways are blocked off. Also make sure that they can easily find food, water, bedding and the door outside.
icon MEDICATIONS
None
icon DEVICES
None
icon SURGERY
None
icon SPECIALISTS
A veterinary ophthalmologist may be consulted to help with treatment of secondary eye issues caused by microphthalmia.

Cost Of Treatment

There is no treatment for the condition itself. Secondary conditions may require treatment. Cost for these will depend on the specific condition being treated.

Recovery

Microphthalmia is a permanent condition.

Monitoring

Your veterinarian will discuss a recommended schedule to recheck your dog based on their findings and the severity of the condition.

Prevention

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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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.