Introduction

• Inflammation and infection behind the closed eyelids of the newborn puppy.
• Cause: oftenStaphylococcusspp.
• Signs: periorbital swelling.
• Diagnosis: clinical signs, ophthalmic examination.
• Treatment: opening of eyelids, antibiotics.
• Prognosis: good if treated early.

Pathogenesis

Etiology

• Staphylococcusspp Streptococcus spp and other bacteria, some of which may be normal flora for the eye.

Predisposing factors

• Poor environmental cleanliness may play a role.

• Bacterial infections of the bitch may be the source of infection.

Specific

• Delayed opening of the eyelids may contribute by allowing accumulation of mucus and other secretions.
• May be related to urogenital infections in the bitch.

Pathophysiology

• Normally the eyelids are closed (ankyloblepharon Ankyloblepharon ) in the puppy for 10-14 days.
• It is believed that the bitch transmits a bacterial infection to the affected puppies at birth, or soon after birth.
• How the bacteria gain entrance to the space between the eyelids and cornea is not well understood.
• The bacteria multiply behind the closed eyelids, causing inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, and accumulation of purulent discharge.
• The build up of discharge causes the eyelids to swell and protrude.
• If the infection is not interrupted, corneal ulceration and perforation may occur, which threaten the globe and result in blindness.

Timecourse

• Short duration over several days.

Epidemiology

• One, several or all puppies within a litter may be affected.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Outcomes