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Ophthalmic corticosteroid therapy: systemic effects in the dog.
M B Glaze1, M A Crawford, R F Nachreiner
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70803.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Long-term ophthalmic corticosteroid use in dogs can cause adrenal suppression and liver changes. While muscles appeared normal, systemic effects warrant careful consideration for this treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Glucocorticoid-induced myopathy can occur in dogs, sometimes linked to ophthalmic preparations.
- Adrenal suppression is a known side effect of systemic corticosteroids.
Observation:
- A dog diagnosed with myopathy showed adrenal suppression linked to ophthalmic corticosteroid use.
- Electromyography revealed abnormalities, but muscle biopsies were normal.
Findings:
- Long-term ophthalmic 0.1% dexamethasone suspension in healthy dogs caused significant adrenal suppression.
- Histopathology revealed liver changes, including vacuolated hepatocytes and glycogen accumulation, in treated dogs.
- Muscle tissue remained histologically and electromyographically normal.
Implications:
- Ophthalmic corticosteroid use can lead to systemic adverse effects in dogs, notably adrenal suppression and hepatic changes.
- This study highlights the importance of monitoring for systemic effects even with topical drug administration.
- Further research may be needed to establish safe long-term protocols for ophthalmic corticosteroid use in canines.