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Keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs associated with sulphonamide administration
Australian Veterinary Journal
|September 1, 1978
Summary
Long-term sulfonamide use in dogs can cause keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). Regular Schirmer Tear Tests are recommended during treatment to monitor for this adverse drug reaction.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a common ocular condition in dogs.
- Certain sulfonamide drugs have been anecdotally linked to KCS.
- Understanding drug-induced ocular toxicity is crucial for veterinary patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation of sulfonamide-induced KCS in dogs.
- To identify specific sulfonamide drugs associated with KCS.
- To propose a mechanism for sulfonamide-induced lacrimal toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis of 14 dogs diagnosed with KCS.
- Review of drug administration records, focusing on sulfonamide use.
- Clinical examination and diagnostic testing, including Schirmer Tear Test.
Main Results:
- Fourteen cases of KCS were identified in dogs receiving sulfonamides.
- Sulfa-diazine and salicylazosulphapyridine were the implicated drugs.
- Clinical signs included decreased tear production and characteristic KCS findings.
Conclusions:
- Sulfonamide administration, particularly long-term, is a significant risk factor for KCS in dogs.
- Regular monitoring with the Schirmer Tear Test is advised for dogs on long-term sulfonamide therapy.
- A nitrogen-containing pyridine ring within the sulfonamide molecule is hypothesized to be responsible for the lacrimotoxic effect.