Blepharitis in dogs: a clinical evaluation in 102 dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Canine Ophthalmology

Background:

• Blepharitis is a frequent complication in dogs with diverse dermatological conditions.
• Differentiating canine blepharitis from periocular dermatitis (POD) is clinically significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define canine blepharitis and distinguish it from POD.
• To analyze clinical signs and etiologies of canine blepharitis.
• To investigate the impact of blepharitis on canine tear production.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study evaluated 102 dogs diagnosed with skin disease and blepharitis.
• Clinical signs and underlying diseases were compared between dogs with blepharitis alone and those with concurrent POD.
• Tear production was assessed in a subset of dogs.

Main Results:

• Brachycephalic breeds showed a higher prevalence of blepharitis.
• Most dogs (69%) presented with both blepharitis and POD.
• Allergic skin disease (52%) was the primary underlying cause, followed by infectious/parasitic diseases (21.5%).
• Reduced tear production was noted in 18.8% of tested dogs.

Conclusions:

• Canine blepharitis typically occurs with other skin lesions, most commonly POD.
• Allergic dermatitis is the leading cause of canine blepharitis.
• Tear production assessment is recommended for all dogs diagnosed with blepharitis.