![]() An electrical recording of the eyes (Electroretinogram, or ‘ERG’) is required for diagnosis. Visual examination of the retina in the early stages is also normal even though the animal is already showing signs of blindness. On ophthalmic examination, early SARDs cases have normal looking eyes and the ophthalmic examination often comes back with no abnormalities. It is more common in females although it is seen in both sexes. No known cause of SARDs has yet been established. This is an uncommon cause of sudden blindness which affects the retina and results in blindness which is irreversible, but nonetheless, it is well known to veterinary ophthalmologists. Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration syndrome (SARDs) Blindness in these cases are often permanent.Ĥ. Once the retina has detached, it is highly unlikely that it will reattach again. A large portion of the retina is only loosely attached to the underlying tissues and so can become fully or partially detached as a result of a number of ocular diseases. Retinal detachment can be caused by primary conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts but may also be a result of trauma. Treatment is tailored to reducing this pressure in the eye and can be both medical and surgical. Too much pressure on the retina and optic nerve can cause blindness. This is a higher than normal pressure inside the eye. Treatment available depends on the underlying cause and further tests (usually blood tests) are sometimes necessary. If this inflammation involves the retina or optic nerve then blindness can be a symptom. Retinal causes of blindness, or brain causes of blindness may require further tests either within the ophthalmology clinic (e.g Electroretinogram) or via other specialist means (e.g MRI scan). For example diabetic cataracts, uveitis, glaucoma, detached retinae and optic neuritis may all be diagnosed in the consulting room. It may be possible for the veterinary ophthalmologist to diagnose the cause during the consultation. Diagnosing the cause(s) of sudden blindness Causes can range from cataracts, optic neuritis, retinal detachment and retinal degeneration just to name a few. Potential causes need to be distinguished from one another because some can be more successfully treated than others. ![]() Each cause has its own prognosis and treatment. There are many causes of sudden blindness. Time is often of the essence in such cases, as the earlier we see the animal the better the prognosis tends to be. There can be a number of different causes and it is important to assess and ascertain the reasoning behind the sudden vision loss. Having your family pet go suddenly blind can be a frightening and confusing time. ![]()
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