FotonMedix
From Symptoms to Surgery: Comprehensive Guide to Treating Glaucoma in Dogs
Glaucoma is a painful and often blinding disease of the canine eye. Rapid progression makes it one of the most critical emergencies in veterinary ophthalmology. This guide explains the development of glaucoma in dogs, outlines the key symptoms of glaucoma in dogs, and evaluates evidence-based approaches to glaucoma in dogs treatment. A clinical case study demonstrates how to treat glaucoma in dogs in practice.
Disease Mechanism
Glaucoma is caused by impaired outflow of aqueous humor through the iridocorneal angle. Pressure buildup damages optic nerve fibers. Unlike humans, dogs progress rapidly, often losing sight in hours or days.
Symptoms of Glaucoma in Dogs
- Cloudy or bluish cornea
- Red eye with dilated episcleral vessels
- Enlarged eyeball (chronic)
- Squinting or rubbing at the eye due to pain
- Sudden blindness
- General behavioral changes such as anxiety or hiding
Veterinarians emphasize that these symptoms of glaucoma in dogs warrant emergency intervention.
Diagnostic Approach
- Tonometry confirms elevated IOP.
- Gonioscopy identifies abnormal drainage angles.
- Advanced imaging (OCT, ultrasound) may help in referral centers.
Glaucoma in Dogs Treatment
Emergency Measures
- IV mannitol or hypertonic saline
- Topical prostaglandin analogs for rapid IOP reduction
Medical Long-Term Management
- Dorzolamide-timolol combination
- Prostaglandin analogs (latanoprost at maintenance doses)
Surgical Options
- Cyclodestructive laser therapy
- Anterior chamber shunts
- Enucleation or evisceration with prosthesis for non-visual painful eyes
Case Study: Acute Glaucoma in a Siberian Husky
Patient: 5-year-old female Husky
History: Owner reported sudden bumping into furniture and a swollen, red eye.
Exam:
- IOP: 70 mmHg (OD)
- Corneal edema, fixed dilated pupil
- Menace response absent
Treatment: - Immediate IV mannitol + topical latanoprost
- Stabilization followed by diode laser cyclophotocoagulation
- Preventive treatment started in the other eye with dorzolamide drops
Outcome:
Vision in the affected eye was lost permanently, but pain was controlled. The contralateral eye remained visual for over 3 years with regular monitoring.
Prognosis and Owner Education
Owners must be informed that glaucoma often affects both eyes. Lifelong monitoring is essential. Even when vision cannot be preserved, veterinary treatment ensures pain control and quality of life.
Conclusion
Glaucoma in dogs is a progressive, painful disease requiring rapid action. Recognizing symptoms of glaucoma in dogs and applying tailored medical or surgical glaucoma in dogs treatment strategies are crucial in managing this condition.