Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS)(SARDS)
Also known as: Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome · Plötzlicher Netzhautschwund · Silent Retina Syndrome · SARDS-Syndrom · Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome, SARDS
Overview
What it is
SARDS is a disease of the eyes where the light-sensitive cells of the retina suddenly and rapidly degenerate, leading to permanent blindness. The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that captures light and sends visual signals to the brain. The exact cause of this rapid cell death remains unknown, and the eyes initially look completely normal from the outside.
How it presents
The condition causes an abrupt loss of vision, typically occurring in middle-aged to senior dogs. Owners may also notice secondary symptoms like a sudden increase in thirst, appetite, and lethargy.
Treatment
SARDS is currently incurable, meaning the resulting blindness is permanent and dogs will require lifelong support to navigate their environment. The diagnostic process to confirm the disease and rule out other causes of blindness typically costs between 800 and 2,500 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 Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS)?
SARDS is a disease of the eyes where the light-sensitive cells of the retina suddenly and rapidly degenerate, leading to permanent blindness. The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that captures light and sends visual signals to the brain. The exact cause of this rapid cell death remains unknown, and the eyes initially look completely normal from the outside.
How is Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) 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.