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Cataract in the UK Leonberger population.
Christine L Heinrich1, Ken H Lakhani, Heidi J Featherstone
1Comparative Ophthalmology Unit, Center of Small Animal Studies, Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK. c.l.h@tesco.net
Veterinary Ophthalmology
|August 31, 2006
Summary
This study surveyed Leonbergers in the UK for cataracts, finding several types. Evidence suggests posterior polar subcapsular cataracts may be inherited in this breed.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Canine Genetics
Background:
- Cataracts are a common cause of vision impairment in dogs.
- The Leonberger breed is numerically small in the UK, with limited data on ocular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the prevalence of cataracts in UK Leonbergers.
- To investigate potential inherited forms of cataract within the breed.
Main Methods:
- Ocular examinations of 365 Leonbergers were analyzed.
- Data spanned from 1990 to 1998, including examinations by the BVA/KC/ISDS eye scheme panel.
- Statistical methods were used to assess familial relationships for cataract types.
Main Results:
- Cataracts were diagnosed in 90 Leonbergers (24.7%).
- Nuclear cataracts (40) and posterior polar subcapsular cataracts (31) were most common.
- A significant association between offspring and parents was found for posterior polar subcapsular cataracts.
Conclusions:
- Several types of cataracts are present in the UK Leonberger population.
- Statistical evidence supports the inheritance of posterior polar subcapsular cataracts in Leonbergers.
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