For Emergencies:
As the summer finally arrives Bridge Referrals are seeing an increase of Pannus in dogs. Pannus is a lifelong condition but with well managed clinical plans the treatment can be very effective.
As our relationship grows with our veterinary colleagues across the region, we will be offering “Lunch and Learn” sessions. These will focus on the key areas to cover on an ophthalmic examination in first opinion practice, during a 10 minute consult! We will also show you how to take samples from the cornea and conjunctiva safely. This will help identify what to look for in cases of pannus, preventing the condition from getting unintentionally ignored and improving the quality of life for animals in our care.
About Pannus
Pannus is a progressive inflammatory condition of the cornea, conjunctiva and third eyelids of the dog. The cause is not fully understood but is thought to be immune mediated. Other exacerbating factors include exposure to sunlight, UV radiation and high altitude. Therefore, the condition is worse in the summer months. Some breeds are predisposed such as the German Shepherd, Greyhounds, Border Collies, Huskies and Shetland sheepdogs. Pannus can affect one or both eyes.
It initially presents as inflammation on the outer edge of the eye. Some ocular discomfort is noted with mucoid discharge and redness at the sclera. You may notice blood vessels growing on the surface of the cornea, pink or white fleshy areas and pigmentation. If the third eyelid is involved this is called a plasmoma. It can develop a cobblestone appearance and the usually pigmented edge becomes pink. Pannus is usually diagnosed on an ophthalmic examination and response to treatment. However, scrapings of the area or occasionally biopsies can be used to aid the diagnosis. Treatment of Pannus is often lifelong. When the disease is caught early, medical therapy is usually successful at controlling the condition. Treatment involves immunosuppressive topical drugs. When sunlight plays a role, protective dog goggles have been used and are surprisingly well tolerated!
Pannus before treatment at Bridge Referrals
Pannus after treatment at Bridge Referrals
Pannus and Bridge Referrals
You can refer a case or a suspected case of Pannus to Bridge Referrals at any time. Our north east based emergency service is available for your clients. Refer to us if you’d wish to have a long term case reviewed. Our fully equipped and expanded ophthalmology department has the capacity and ability to run through tests efficiently. Bridge Referrals’ ophthalmology services can be viewed as complementary and added to your ongoing treatment plans for your clients. Our ophthalmologists are very comfortable when it comes to examining eyes. Taking scrapes and samples of the eye are carried out daily. Getting quicker diagnosis using our dedicated ophthalmic equipment and our in-house laboratory. If necessary we will be able to carry out a Keratectomy, a surgical procedure that removes and smooths the corneal surface.
“Lunch and Learn”
Olivia Grice, Ophthalmologist at Bridge Referrals, will be holding our “lunch and Learn” sessions. In these sessions she will be demonstrating how a basic eye examination can be performed. Talking through clinical signs to look out for. These sessions will contribute to professional development and allow for a relaxed networking opportunity for our colleagues that want to learn more about Pannus. Conveniently held at your practice or at Bridge Referrals at times that suit you.
If you’re interested in arranging or being part of our Pannus “Lunch and Learn” sessions please email us at [email protected]. From this email we’ll be able to schedule the most appropriate session for you.
