Nodular granulomatous episclerokeratitis in dogs: 19 cases (1973-1985)

We examined the age and breed prevalence and the response to treatment of 19 dogs with nodular granulomatous episclerokeratitis. Biopsy specimens were evaluated to determine the histologic characteristics of the lesions. In these dogs, this disorder was an idiopathic, bilateral disease characterized histologically by the presence of chronic granulomatous inflammation and reticulin fiber formation. The onset of clinical signs developed predominantly in young to middle-aged Collies, with a slow progression and benign clinical course. With treatment, the condition rarely threatened vision and was controlled easily with azathioprine (2 mg/kg) and/or corticosteroid. The dose of immunosuppressive drug was tapered to allow for minimal systemic effects and continued remission of clinical signs. The response to treatment was highly variable.