Brachycephalic ocular syndrome in dogs

Abstract

Small brachycephalic breeds, such as the Pug and French Bulldog, among others, are currently extremely popular. The conformation of these breeds is part of their appeal to owners, although this can lead to ocular surface disease such as corneal ulceration and pigmentation. The eye problems associated with these breeds are collectively known as brachycephalic ocular syndrome. In dolicocephalic and mesocephalic dogs there is usually a close interaction between the tear film, the eyelids and the cornea. This does not seem to be the case in breeds with brachycephalic ocular syndrome, where poor skull and eyelid conformation, corneal sensation and tear films are associated with ocular problems such as corneal ulceration and pigmentation, as well as a predisposition to globe proptosis. Treatment needs to address the causes of the problems and combinations of both medical and surgical treatment are required.