Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Dry Eye)

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is also known as “dry eye”.  KCS means the inflammation of the cornea and the tissues surrounding it due to drying.

SOURCE & CAUSE(S)

KCS occurs when there is an inability to produce tears.  There are several sources for why this condition occurs and they include the following:

• Immune-mediated diseases -  the tear glands are not recognized by the body, therefore the body treats them like a foreign body and the immune system becomes overactive and tried to destroy them, causing damage to the glands by attacking the cells that produce tears.


• Certain viral infections can cause damage to the tear glands such as canine distemper virus or the feline herpes virus.


• Certain medications can cause damage to the tear glands such as sulfa drugs.


• Trauma to the eye.


• Chronic untreated conjunctivitis can also be a cause for dry eye.

Certain breeds are more likely to develop KCS. These breeds include the West Highland white terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Lhasa apso, Yorkshire terrier, English bulldogs, beagles, and Miniature Schnauzers. A congenital form of KCS is recognized in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, it is thought that this breed has a poor development of the tear producing glands.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Corneal Inflammation


• Discharge from the eye (mucus or pus)


• Crusting around the eye


• Holding the eye(s) closed


• Excessive rubbing of the eye(s)


• Conjunctivitis

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam.  Your veterinarian will be most likely do the following:

• Schirmer tear test- This is the most common tear producing test performed.  A special strip of absorbent paper is placed inside the lower eyelid and left for about a minute, during which time the amount of tear production is measured.  As tears are produced the strip changes color allowing for easy measuring.  


• Corneal stain-a fluorescent dye is placed in the eye and then examined with an ultraviolet light.  If an ulcer is present it will glow green under the UV light.  Your veterinarian can now evaluate size and location of ulcer.


• Intraocular pressure (IOP) - This can be measured to determine if glaucoma is present.


• Tear duct exam- the tear ducts are examined and sometimes flushed to ensure proper drainage is possible

TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT

The treatment of KCS or dye eye is aimed towards stimulating tear production and protecting the cornea.  The most common treatment is through the use of ophthalmic medications to stimulate tear production.  The drugs may have to be administered up to six times a day to ensure proper lubrication is being given to the eye.  In some cases antibiotics may be also be needed if their was an infection present secondary or primary to KCS developing.  There is a surgical procedure that involves duct replacement, this has been successful, but using the topical medications is still the most common treatment used.  The management of KCS is done through using the topical medications.

PREVENTION & HELPFUL TIPS

There is no prevention for KCS. 

PetsMD Recommends:
Pet Vision Lubricating Eye Drops	21st Century Tear Stain Remover Pads