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Multifocal serous chorioretinitis in beagle dogs.
F von Landenberg1, U Biermann, H P Hamann
1Institute of Toxicology of E. Merck, Darmstadt, West Germany.
Lens and Eye Toxicity Research
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Ophthalmological exams revealed subclinical chorioretinitis in beagles. Investigations identified a gram-positive microorganism, not a virus, as the likely cause of retinal inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Canine Pathology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Routine ophthalmological examinations in a beagle colony identified clinically inapparent chorioretinitis.
- The condition affected 7.4% and 10% of dogs in 1988 and 1989, respectively.
- Lesions were primarily in the non-tapetal fundus and often bilateral.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin of the observed chorioretinitis in beagles.
- To determine if viral or bacterial agents were responsible for the ocular condition.
Main Methods:
- Infection tests, virologic, bacteriologic, and histopathologic investigations were conducted.
- Electron microscopy was used to search for virus particles.
- Bacteriologic cultures were performed on ocular material.
- Histopathology examined retinal tissue.
Main Results:
- No virus particles were detected via electron microscopy.
- MDCK cell cultures for viruses were negative.
- A gram-positive, filiform, branched microorganism was isolated.
- Histopathology showed focal atrophy of retinal neurons and glial cell proliferation.
Conclusions:
- The chorioretinitis in this beagle colony was likely caused by a bacterial agent, not a virus.
- The isolated gram-positive microorganism is the suspected causative agent.
- Further characterization of the microorganism is warranted.