Diagnosis

CSK is usually a bilateral progressive condition. Signs include pigmentation and vascularization of the cornea (extension of blood vessels onto the cornea). It is usually first seen at the lateral (temporal) limbus (the junction between the cornea and sclera), although it eventually can extend from any part of the limbus to cover the entire cornea. Severe cases can cause blindness. Although CSK is usually identifiable by the appearance of the eye and the breed of the affected dog, cytology will reveal the presence of lymphocytes and plasma cells.

Causes

The cause of Chronic Superficial Keratitis is believed to be an immune-mediated inflammation of the cornea that is made worse by external factors. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation and environmental pollution increases the severity of the condition. Dogs that live in areas of extensive sunlight, especially at high elevations tend to have the worst clinical signs. Chronic Superficial Keratitis is not painful, but advanced cases may lead to blindness. Chronic Superficial Keratitis occurs only in dogs. Most affected dogs are middle-aged, but the disease can develop in young adult dogs.

Breeds Affected

Chronic Superficial Keratitis is generally known as a German Shepherd Dog eye disease but has also been seen in the Belgian Tervuren, Border Collie, Greyhound, and Siberian Husky.