Ophthalmic examination findings in a group of retired racing Greyhounds.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the frequency and types of ophthalmic findings in a group of retired racing Greyhounds.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Complete ophthalmic examinations of both eyes of 100 retired racing Greyhounds were performed. Anterior segment examinations were performed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Tear production was measured by Schirmer tear test. Intraocular pressures were obtained by applanation tonometry. The posterior segments were examined by binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy following pharmacologic dilation. A photographic record of abnormalities was obtained whenever possible.

RESULTS

Mean tear production by Schirmer tear test was 21 mm/min (range 11-30 mm/min). Mean intraocular pressure by applanation tonometry was 16 mmHg (range 9-28 mmHg). The most prevalent anterior segment findings were cataracts (17% dogs, 11% eyes), corneal degeneration/scarring (6% dogs, 4% eyes), and suspected typical and atypical 'pannus' (total 4% dogs, 4% eyes). The most prevalent posterior segment abnormalities were vitreal degeneration (31% dogs, 38% eyes) and chorioretinal degeneration/scarring (7% dogs, 4% eyes). Other findings included anterior chamber vitreal strands, stretched lens zonules, periocular alopecia, a case of mild unilateral chemosis, and a distichium.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmic abnormalities are not uncommon in retired racing Greyhounds.