Rod dysplasia(rd)
Also known as: Retinal Rod Dysplasia · Stäbchendysplasie · Photoreceptor Dysplasia
Overview
What it is
Rod dysplasia is an inherited eye disorder where the light-sensitive cells in the retina, specifically the rods responsible for low-light vision, fail to develop properly. This maldevelopment leads to a progressive degeneration of the tissue, eventually causing complete blindness. While historically found in Norwegian Elkhounds, the disease is now considered effectively eradicated, though clinical eye exams can still screen for it.
How it presents
Owners will first notice night blindness in affected puppies, often starting at just a few weeks or months of age. As the disease progresses over the following years, the dog will eventually lose its daytime vision as well.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, so treatment focuses on environmental adaptation and supportive care to help the dog cope with vision loss. Lifetime management and veterinary monitoring typically cost between 300 and 1500 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
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Rod dysplasia?
Rod dysplasia is an inherited eye disorder where the light-sensitive cells in the retina, specifically the rods responsible for low-light vision, fail to develop properly. This maldevelopment leads to a progressive degeneration of the tissue, eventually causing complete blindness. While historically found in Norwegian Elkhounds, the disease is now considered effectively eradicated, though clinical eye exams can still screen for it.
How is Rod dysplasia tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.