Keratoconjunctivitis sicca associated with sulfonamide therapy in dogs.

During a 4-year period, keratoconjunctivitis sicca developed in 14 dogs treated with sulfonamides (13, sulfasalazine; 1, sulfadiazine and trimethoprim). Diagnosis was made in 3 dogs by clinical signs and in 11 by evaluation of the Schirmer tear test. Management of the problem included discontinuance of the sulfonamide, then use of ophthalmic preparations topically and antibiotics systemically. Pilocarpine was administered orally and topically to 11 dogs, with variable success. Lacrimation remained inadequate in 10 dogs and returned to normal in 3. One dog was lost to follow-up. Parotid salivary duct transpositions were performed in 3 dogs (in 2 successfully) with severe, unresponsive keratoconjunctivitis sicca.