Pigmentary Uveitis Study
Pigmentary Uveitis (aka Golden Retriever Uveitis) is a disease that affects Golden Retrievers. This progressive uveitis (inflammation of the eye) is not due to infection or systemic disease, but appears to be a hereditary, immune-mediated disorder. First detected in Golden Retrievers in the northeastern United States, it is now spreading to other regions. This disorder affects older dogs (the average age of onset is 8 years old) of both sexes and is usually a bilateral condition. Pigmentation of the anterior lens capsule, usually in a radial fashion, is the hallmark of the syndrome. Although topical and systemic medication can help control the disease, the prognosis for saving sight in Goldens with this progressive uveitis is guarded. Studies have found that approximately 50% of Pigmentary Uveitis cases result in glaucoma, and 33% of cases result in cataracts. Because this disorder has only recently become prevalent, very little is known about its etiology.
The goal of this project is to determine if there is a hereditary link behind Pigmentary Uveitis by examining pedigrees of affected dogs. We also want to determine if the Dog Leukocyte Antigen (DLA) tissue type is associated with development of Pigmentary Uveitis. DLA tissue typing is a blood test that analyzes antigens on white blood cells. We will use DLA tissue typing to determine if specific antigens are connected with the development of Pigmentary Uveitis.
If we determine that pigmentary uveitis is a hereditary disease, we will further attempt to isolate the specific gene that is responsible for this disorder. To obtain this information, we will perform pedigree analysis, DNA analysis, and DLA tissue typing on blood samples and cheek swabs of affected Golden Retrievers and closely related unaffected Golden Retrievers. If a specific gene is responsible, we will use this knowledge to develop a diagnostic genetic test for Pigmentary Uveitis, as well as develop more effective therapies.
How you can help with this study
We need blood samples, cheek swabs and pedigrees of dogs with Pigmentary Uveitis or unaffected, but closely related dogs to use for pedigree analysis, gene analysis, and tissue typing. If you know or suspect any cases of dogs with this disorder, please contact Dr. Wendy Townsend (townsend@cvm.msu.edu.) or call Michele Fritz at 517-432-9902.
We are also looking for globes from dogs that have had their eye(s) enucleated due to Pigmentary Uveitis.
If you are interested in learning more about this disorder, or to help fund this study, please contact Dr. Wendy Townsend (townsend@cvm.msu.edu.) or Michele Fritz at 517-432-9902.
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