Clinical studies on progressive retinal atrophy in 31 dogs

During a 2-year period, 31 cases of a hereditary retinal degeneration in dogs bred in India were found mainly suspected for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) with typical history of initial nyctalopia followed by hemeralopia. Out of 31 PRA suspected dogs, 8 dogs (26%) were from the age group of 1-5 years, 15 (48%) 6-10 years and the rest (26%) 11-15 years. The most predominant breed was Spitz (18 dogs, 58%). Detailed ophthalmologic examinations included Schirmer's tear test, fluorescein stain, applanation tonometry, slit lamp biomicroscopy and ocular ultrasound in appropriate cases. Ophthalmoscopic and fundoscopic changes included hyperreflectivity and discoloration of the tapetal area, marked attenuation of retinal vessels, depigmentation in non-tapetal area and optic disc atrophy with scalloped borders. Electroretinograms (ERG) recorded in 13 PRA-affected cases revealed non-recordable extinguished (flatline) ERG responses. A reduction mainly of a- and b-wave amplitudes in the ERG indicated a generalized photoreceptor disease.