Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is an immune-mediated ophthalmological disease that results in reduced tear production.
Clinical signs vary depending on the time of onset, and include mucopurulent ocular discharge, inflammation of the conjunctiva and increased corneal opacity. In addition, corneal ulcers may occur due to reduced ocular lubrication.
Medical treatment is the main form of therapy, as some drugs increase tear production. Treatment is specific and adapted to each pet and may include a combination of tear production-stimulating drugs and artificial tears.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a disease characterized by a quantitative deficiency in tear production, resulting in dryness and inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. In most cases, KCS is attributed to an immune-mediated cause. Although all dogs can be affected, there is a greater genetic predisposition in the English Bulldog, West Highland White Terrier, Pug, American Cocker Spaniel, Pekingese, Miniature Schnauzer and English Springer Spaniel breeds.
Clinical signs vary depending on the time since the disease has developed. At first, the affected eyes appear red and inflamed, with intermittent mucous or mucopurulent discharge. As the clinical condition develops and worsens, the cornea becomes dull and the conjunctiva hyperemic. In addition, corneal ulcers and pigment deposition may occur due to reduced ocular lubrication. In more serious cases and not subject to treatment in a timely manner, an intense deposition of corneal pigment can compromise the animal’s visual capacity, as it leads to a reduction in the field of vision.
Diagnosis is based on the clinical signs and measurement of tear production using the Schirmer tear test (STT-1).
Medical treatment is the main form of therapy. This is specific and adapted to each pet, and may include a combination of topical and/or oral drugs such as lacrimostimulants, lacrimomimetics, antibiotics or anti-inflammatories.