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Keratoconjunctivitis sicca associated with sulfonamide therapy in dogs
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|February 15, 1982
Summary
Sulfonamide medications can cause keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) in dogs. Treatment involves discontinuing the drug, using eye drops and oral medications, and sometimes surgery for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sulfonamides are a class of antibiotics with known potential adverse effects.
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), or dry eye, can significantly impact canine ocular health and comfort.
- Previous reports suggest a link between sulfonamide use and KCS in dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and clinical presentation of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs treated with sulfonamides.
- To evaluate the efficacy of various treatment modalities for sulfonamide-induced KCS.
- To assess the long-term outcomes of KCS management in affected dogs.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted over a 4-year period.
- Medical records of dogs treated with sulfonamides were reviewed for the development of KCS.
- Diagnosis of KCS was based on clinical signs and Schirmer tear test results.
- Treatment strategies included drug withdrawal, topical and systemic medications, and surgical intervention (parotid duct transposition).
Main Results:
- Fourteen dogs developed KCS during the study period, with 13 receiving sulfasalazine and one receiving sulfadiazine and trimethoprim.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by Schirmer tear test in 11 dogs.
- Treatment involved discontinuing the sulfonamide, topical ophthalmic preparations, systemic antibiotics, and oral/topical pilocarpine in 11 dogs.
- Pilocarpine showed variable success; 10 dogs had inadequate lacrimation, and 3 had normal tear production.
- Parotid salivary duct transposition was performed in 3 dogs with severe KCS, with successful outcomes in 2.
Conclusions:
- Sulfonamide administration, particularly sulfasalazine, is associated with the development of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.
- Management requires prompt drug withdrawal and often involves a multi-modal therapeutic approach.
- While medical management can be variable, surgical transposition of the parotid salivary duct offers a potential solution for severe, refractory cases.