Pannus Signs, Causes and Treatment

Pannus is a nonulcerative, noninfectious, inflammatory condition of the canine cornea called chronic superficial keratitis (CSK), also known as German Shepherd pannus. Pannus is a highly progressive and potentially blinding disorder of the eye. Although it was first noticed in German Shepherd Dogs, it may occur in other breeds too.

Signs of Pannus

The disorder commonly begins as a red patch, often intermixed with dark pigment in the upper region of the conjunctiva. Unless it is aggressively and persistently treated, this pigment will gradually spread across the cornea.

Treatment of Pannus

There is no cure for this condition, only surgical management and control. Therapies include corticosteroid medications, radiation therapy and surgical intervention by freezing, heating or cutting out the lesion. Topical 1% pimecrolimus may be a new effective treatment for chronic superficial keratitis in dogs.

The affected eyes are treated with 1 drop of an experimental, corn oil-based pimecrolimus 1% formulation three times a day. Results showed decreased inflammation and scarring of the cornea.

In German Shepherds affected at a fairly young age (1-4 years), the condition is usually rapidly progressive and severe. In those animals first affected later in life (4-6 years), the lesions appear to progress more slowly and are less severe. The Greyhounds tend to be affected at younger ages, usually before 2 to 3 years, but show relatively mild lesions.

Dog Breeds Affected by Pannus

Australian Shepherd, Belgian Sheepdog, Border Collie, Dachshund, Dalmatian, Greyhound, Pointer, and Siberian Husky

References:
1. Uc Davis Book of Dogs: The Complete Medical Reference Guide for Dogs and Puppies By Mordecai Siegal
2. The effect of topical pimecrolimus on keratoconjunctivitis sicca and chronic superficial keratitis in dogs: results from an exploratory study. Nell B, Walde I, Billich A, Vit P, Meingassner JG.

Canine Eye Diseases and Vision Disorders