Primary Lens Luxation
Primary lens luxation is believed to be inherited in most breeds. Secondary lens luxation is not heritable, and happens as the result of another disease process within the eye. Primary lens luxation tends to have certain predispositions for certain breeds.
Lens luxation refers to the lens being in an abnormal position inside the eye. Signs of this condition include eye redness, the cornea becoming cloudy, and a painful eye – indicated by squinting, tearing and the dog shying away. It usually has a sudden onset.
Diagnosis is by examination of the inside of the eye by a veterinarian, and possibly an ultrasound of the eye. Glaucoma (increased fluid pressure within the eye) is a common consequence of lens luxation, and can rapidly lead to blindness. Generally treatment involves surgery to remove the lens, although occasionally medical treatment with drops is attempted to keep the lens sitting in the back part of the eye.