Important Updates Regarding Pigmentary Uveitis

Abstract

Findings from a research study published late last year (Esson D et al, 2009) have raised questions about the underlying nature of pigmentary uveitis (PU). This disease previously had been believed to include inflammation as a consistent feature, and indeed, even the suffix “itis” in the name refers to inflammation. This new study closely examined the enucleated (surgically removed) eyes from dogs with advanced disease, and found minimal to moderate inflammation in eight eyes, but no evidence of cellular inflammation in the remaining seven. However, three features present in all of the eyes were cysts; abnormal pigment; and changes in the structure that drains fluid from inside the eye (which in turn frequently lead to the development of glaucoma, as it did in these eyes). Because of the consistent presence of cysts, pigment, and structural changes that often result in glaucoma – and the inconsistent presence of inflammation – the study authors suggested renaming the disease “Pigmentary and Cystic Glaucoma of Golden Retrievers.”