Persistent Hyperplastic Tunica Vasculosa Lentis (PHTVL) and Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV)(PHTVL/PHPL)
Also known as: Persistent Hyperplastic Tunica Vasculosa Lentis · Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous · PHTVL/PHPV · PHPV · PHTVL · …
Overview
What it is
This is a congenital eye disorder where the temporary blood vessel network that nourishes the lens before birth fails to shrink and disappear as it normally should. Instead, this embryonic tissue remains and grows abnormally behind and around the lens. This can cause cloudiness in the lens, known as cataracts, and other structural changes inside the eye.
How it presents
Owners may notice a whitish or cloudy appearance in the puppy's pupil, or signs of vision loss such as bumping into things. The condition is present from birth and is typically detected during a veterinary eye exam between 6 and 9 weeks of age.
Treatment
Mild cases may only need regular monitoring, while severe cases may require specialized surgery to remove cataracts or abnormal tissue. Treatment costs range from €300 for diagnostic monitoring to €4,500 for complex surgical intervention.
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
Affected breeds
24 of 36 breeds
Mandatory testAkita
Mandatory testDutch Schapendoes
Mandatory testEast Siberian Laika
Mandatory testGreenland Dog
Mandatory testHokkaido
Mandatory testIcelandic Sheepdog
Mandatory testJämthund
Mandatory testKarelian Bear Dog
Mandatory testKintamani-Bali Dog
Mandatory testKishu
Mandatory testKomondor
Mandatory testKorean Jindo
Mandatory testLapinporokoira
Mandatory testMiniature Schnauzer
Mandatory testMudi
Mandatory testNorwegian Buhund
Mandatory testNorwegian Elkhound (Black)
Mandatory testNorwegian Elkhound (Gray)
Mandatory testNorwegian Lundehund
Mandatory testPuli
Mandatory testPumi
Mandatory testSamoyed
Mandatory testShikoku
Mandatory testSmooth-haired Dachshund
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Persistent Hyperplastic Tunica Vasculosa Lentis (PHTVL) and Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV)?
This is a congenital eye disorder where the temporary blood vessel network that nourishes the lens before birth fails to shrink and disappear as it normally should. Instead, this embryonic tissue remains and grows abnormally behind and around the lens. This can cause cloudiness in the lens, known as cataracts, and other structural changes inside the eye.
How is Persistent Hyperplastic Tunica Vasculosa Lentis (PHTVL) and Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV) tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Akita, Dutch Schapendoes, East Siberian Laika, Greenland Dog, Hokkaido, Icelandic Sheepdog, Jämthund, Karelian Bear Dog.