Microphthalmia
Also known as: Mikrophthalmie · Small eye syndrome · Ocular dysgenesis · Zwergaugigkeit · Microphthalmie · …
Overview
What it is
Microphthalmia is a congenital developmental disorder of the visual system where one or both of a dog's eyeballs are abnormally small. This structural defect occurs during embryonic development and is often accompanied by other eye abnormalities, such as cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. Because the eyeball itself is underdeveloped, the surrounding eyelids may also appear droopy or misaligned.
How it presents
This condition is typically noticeable as soon as a puppy opens its eyes, usually around two weeks of age, revealing eyes that look abnormally small and set deep within the sockets. Owners may also observe vision problems, ranging from mild clumsiness in unfamiliar environments to complete blindness.
Treatment
There is no cure to make the eye grow to normal size, but secondary issues like inflammation can be managed medically, or the eye can be surgically removed if it causes chronic pain. Treatment and surgical management typically cost between €300 and €2,500 depending on the severity. This is generally a one-time surgical expense or a manageable lifelong care routine.
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
17 of 17 breeds
RecommendedAkita
RecommendedAustralian Shepherd
RecommendedBeagle
RecommendedBorder Collie
RecommendedBorzoi
RecommendedCavalier King Charles Spaniel
RecommendedDachshund
RecommendedDobermann
RecommendedIrish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
RecommendedMiniature Schnauzer
RecommendedPortuguese Water Dog
RecommendedShetland Sheepdog
OptionalDalmatian
OptionalGreat Dane
OptionalMiniature Poodle
OptionalOld English Sheepdog
OptionalSaint Bernard
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Microphthalmia?
Microphthalmia is a congenital developmental disorder of the visual system where one or both of a dog's eyeballs are abnormally small. This structural defect occurs during embryonic development and is often accompanied by other eye abnormalities, such as cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. Because the eyeball itself is underdeveloped, the surrounding eyelids may also appear droopy or misaligned.
How is Microphthalmia 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?
Most commonly affected: Akita, Australian Shepherd, Beagle, Border Collie, Borzoi, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshund, Dobermann.