OFA PRELIM
NORMAL RESULTS 2003
NORMAL RESULTS 2005
Punctate cataract 2008
(This is NOT herditary per the Opthamologist that did the exam)
*Please see bottom of page for more information on Punctate Cataracts*
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Punctate Cataracts, Significance Unknown
Vickie Halstead RN, CVNS, CCRN, CEN, CLNC
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For clear vision the lens must remain transparent in order to refract light to be focused on the retina.
Any blemish or a tiny dot is defined as a cataract, which can only be visualized by an ophthalmologist with specialized equipment.
Punctate is defined as a dot. In very rare situations a dog can be born with this blemish on the lens,
or it can be caused by trauma, infection, inflammation, or exposure to toxins.
Because the outcome of this cataract is difficult to determine, it is called “significance unknown”.
Therefore, a punctate cataract is a tiny dot on the lens that is unlikely to progress to a true genetic juvenile cataract,
however the cataract must be monitored for progression. If in doubt, the prudent approach is to assume that the cataract is inherited.
If it progresses (grows in size), it is diagnosed as a genetic cataract.
Three factors help determine the significance of punctate cataracts:
1.If this dot is on the front of the lens, it is even more unlikely to progress to a genetic cataract.
2.If this dot does not progress in size over time, genetic cataracts can be ruled out.
3.If this dot is only present in one eye, it is unlikely to be a genetic cataract, which most often develop in both eyes.
4. If it is an older animal that has been tested previously tested normal then genetic cataracts can be ruled out.
Breeding Advice: “Breeder option” on the CERF form means caution is advised. If the punctate cataract is in one of the three above categories then breeding is allowed.
at colradanes@gmail.com