Pannus is an eye disease which afflicts certain breeds. Corneal inflammation characterizes this incurable disease. Pannus must be treated, or it can lead to loss of vision or even complete blindness.
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Breeds
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Pannus affects certain breeds more than others. German Shepherds are the most commonly affected breed, but the following breeds are also predisposed to Pannus: Poodle, Belgian Shepherd, Miniature Pincher, Dachshund, Siberian Husky and Greyhound.
Symptoms
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Inflammation typically starts in the pink tissues surrounding the eye (conjunctiva). The inflammation spreads to the cornea, causing corneal inflammation and discoloration, and sometimes, white crystals will form in the cornea (deposits of cholesterol), causing the eye to appear cloudy.
Diagnosis
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Your veterinarian can usually make a diagnosis of Pannus based on the breed of your dog, as well as the symptoms which are present.
Treatment
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There is no cure for Pannus, but the symptoms can be treated in order to help your dog avoid blindness. The most effective, commonly-used medications for Pannus are steroids and cyclosporine, which help to reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune response in the eye.
Prognosis
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If your dog is suffering from Pannus, he must stay on medications for the rest of his life. It is expected that your dog will undergo annual exams to monitor the progress of the disease and to ensure that the topical ointments are working properly to prevent sight loss and/or further eye damage.
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