Macular Corneal Dystrophy(MCD)
Also known as: Makuläre Hornhautdystrophie des Hundes · Corneal Dystrophy Macular Type · Hornhautdystrophie Typ Makulär · Makuläre Hornhautdystrophie · Fehr's macular corneal dystrophy · …
Overview
What it is
Macular corneal dystrophy is an inherited eye disorder where abnormal metabolic byproducts build up within the cornea, which is the clear outer layer of the eye. This accumulation causes progressive, cloudy spots to form on both eyes, gradually reducing their transparency. Over time, this buildup impairs the dog's ability to see clearly.
How it presents
Owners typically notice a cloudy or greyish haze developing over both eyes, often starting in young adulthood. As the cloudiness spreads, the dog may show signs of vision loss, such as bumping into objects or hesitating in unfamiliar environments.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, and management typically involves lifelong supportive care, such as specialized eye drops, or surgery in severe cases. The lifetime treatment costs generally range from 1,000 to 4,000 EUR.
How it's tested
ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK)(ECVO-DOK)
Primary testEye examAugenuntersuchung durch ECVO-zertifizierten Augentierarzt (Dortmunder Kreis). Erkennt PRA, Katarakt, Entropium, CEA, MPP, RD u.a.
Issuing body: ECVO
Result scheme: Eye-ECVO
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Macular Corneal Dystrophy?
Macular corneal dystrophy is an inherited eye disorder where abnormal metabolic byproducts build up within the cornea, which is the clear outer layer of the eye. This accumulation causes progressive, cloudy spots to form on both eyes, gradually reducing their transparency. Over time, this buildup impairs the dog's ability to see clearly.
How is Macular Corneal Dystrophy tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK), Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.