Pannus in Dogs

Category: Eye
Inheritance: Autosomal dominant
Breeds documented: 3
Published sources: 5

Overview

With pannus, the immune system drives ongoing inflammation of the cornea, the clear window at the front of the eye. Blood vessels, inflammatory tissue, and dark pigment can spread inward from its edges. Both eyes are usually affected, although the changes may differ between them. Without treatment, the tissue can block light and reduce sight.

Signs to watch for

Redness and visible vessels at the edges of the clear eye surface
A fleshy-looking film spreading toward the center of the eye
Dark pigment spreading across the eye surface
Reduced sight in advanced cases

Signs often start between 1 and 6 years, but timing and severity vary.

When to get help Book a vet examination when a new film, pigment, or redness appears on the eye.

Diagnosis and tests

The vet examines the pattern of blood vessels, pigment, and tissue spreading across the corneas. A full eye examination can include tear testing and a dye test to check the eye surface. The vet also looks for other causes of corneal inflammation, such as eyelid problems or reduced tear production.

Breeds with documented risk

3 breeds

By breed size

1 Medium
2 Large

German ShepherdLarge · Herding Group
Gerberian ShepskyMedium
ShepradorLarge

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant
Greyhound
One copy of the variant, from either parent, is enough to put a dog at risk. On average, an affected dog passes the variant to half of its puppies. Males and females are affected equally.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.