Cherry Eye

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Cherry eye is a way of describing a condition where the third eyelid pops out and it is bright pink or red.  What is really happening is the third eyelid, which is located inside the lower eyelid, has prolapsed, or turned inside out.  Under normal conditions, you cannot see the third eyelid but it is tucked under the bottom of the eyelid and helps in the production of tears. Once a cherry eye is present, you need to get your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The longer the tissue is exposed, the more likely it is to cause an infection in the eye, because your pet will want to scratch the eye, running the risk of creating an ulcer on the eyeball.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

The exact cause of cherry eye is not known, but what is known is that the connective tissue that holds the third eyelid in place becomes weakened enough to allow it to prolapse. It is widely accepted that there are several breeds that are prone to having a cherry eye. Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, Beagles, Bloodhounds, Shih-tzus, Boston terrier, Bull Terrier, St. Bernard, and Shar-Pei’s. Dogs can acquire this condition at any age and it affects males and females equally.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

A small protrusion of tissue will be popped out of the bottom portion of the eyelid. This little bundle of tissue is usually bright pink or red, hence “Cherry Eye”.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam. The presence of a Cherry Eye will be obvious. Your veterinarian will most likely do the following to look for any secondary problems the cherry eye has caused:

• Flush the eye with a saline solution and then stain the eye with a green liquid. 
  
• Look at the cornea with an ultra violet light to reveal any ulcers present due to scratching or itching the eye with a paw. 

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

Treatment involves surgical replacement of the third eyelid to its correct position in the eye. It is important to have the surgical correction done as quickly as possible to minimize any further damage to your pet’s eye.  If treatment is neglected or prolonged, the risk causing further damage is high.  Remember, that the third eyelid is responsible for at least fifty percent of the tear production, so if neglected your pet will develop dry eye which can lead to vision loss.  

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

There is no prevention for cherry eye.