Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Eye numbness and dry eye after glaucoma laser treatment in dogs
By Sebbag, Lionel et al.·Published in Veterinary ophthalmology·2020·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Corneal hypoesthesia, aqueous tear deficiency, and neurotrophic keratopathy following micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 18 dogs treated for glaucoma with a laser procedure called micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) experienced some eye problems afterward. Most of the dogs had reduced sensitivity in their corneas, with some losing up to 100% of their sensation. Additionally, nearly half developed a deficiency in tear production, and a third had painful corneal ulcers that took weeks to heal. Brachycephalic breeds, like Bulldogs and Pugs, were more likely to have these issues. It's important for pet owners to monitor their dog's eye health closely after this treatment.
People also search for: dog glaucoma treatment · corneal ulcers in dogs · brachycephalic dog eye problems
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To describe ocular surface complications following micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) in dogs. ANIMALS STUDIED: Eighteen dogs treated with MP-TSCPC at two institutions for glaucoma management. PROCEDURES: MP-TSCPC was applied to each eye (avoiding 3 and 9 o'clock positions) with 31.3% duty cycle, 2000-3000 mW energy, and 90-180 seconds duration per hemisphere. Central corneal tactile sensation (CTS) and Schirmer tear test-1 (STT-1) were measured at baseline and ≥2 post-operative visits in each dog. RESULTS: Corneal sensitivity decreased in 16/18 dogs (89%) by an average of 10%-42% (up to 100% in 4 dogs). CTS decline was rapid (≤1 week) and only fully recovered in 50% of dogs within 8-180 days. Patients' age, glaucoma duration, laser energy, and total energy delivered did not affect CTS at any visit. However, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower CTS and likelihood to recover full sensation compared with nonbrachycephalic dogs. Aqueous tear deficiency (STT-1 < 15 mm/min) occurred in 8/18 dogs (44%) within 7-270 days, and concurrent signs of keratoconjunctivitis sicca were noted in 2/18 dogs (11%). Neurotrophic corneal ulcers developed in 6/18 dogs (33.3%) and required 16-53 days to heal. CONCLUSIONS: Corneal hypoesthesia is a common complication of MP-TSCPC in dogs, and can lead to serious adverse effects such as aqueous tear deficiency and neurotrophic corneal ulcers. Brachycephalic dogs represent a population at higher risk. Close monitoring of ocular surface health is recommended for months following MP-TSCPC in dogs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31464376/