Glaucomatous syndrome in Chihuahua: from ocular hypertension to glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is defined as the final pathway of a set of ophthalmic diseases characterized by progressive loss of sensitivity and function, followed by death, of retinal ganglion cells and axonal loss of the optic nerve, with consequent reduction of visual field, leading to blindness, caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) considered normal in the dog between 10 and 20 mm Hg. In animals it may be classified as possible primary, secondary, or congenital cause with respect to the appearance of the drainage angle as open-angle, narrow-angle, or angle-closure glaucoma, or as to the duration or stage of the disease, such as acute, chronic or absolute. The diagnosis is based on the clinical manifestations associated with the use of tonometry, gonioscopy, ultrasonography and electroretinography. The treatment is based on drugs that decrease IOP, and it may be necessary to associate with surgical procedures. Surgical techniques aim to reduce the production of aqueous humor, injuring the ciliary body or increasing its drainage, through alternative routes.