Prolapsed Gland of the Third Eyelid (Cherry Eye)
Disease Description and Clinical Picture
The prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid can be either unilateral or bilateral and is commonly seen in young dogs aged between four weeks and two years. The exact cause of this condition is not known, but it is thought to occur due to the weakness of fibrous structures holding the gland in place and the presence of chronic inflammation (most often allergy-induced). Some dog breeds are more susceptible to this condition: American Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Beagle, Shih Tzu, and Pekingese. The prolapsed gland appears suddenly and is observed as a red, round mass in the medial eye corner. Sometimes, accompanying symptoms may include conjunctivitis, eye discharge, and ulcerative keratitis. Tear production is most often reduced.
 
Therapy
Surgical excision of the prolapsed gland is absolutely contraindicated, as a significant number of dogs develop dry eye disease in the short or long term (from six months to six years) after the surgery. Therefore, surgical techniques aimed at repositioning the prolapsed gland are recommended. Complications can vary considerably depending on the surgical technique chosen; the most common are recurrences or the appearance of a cyst of the third eyelid.
 
Please contact our specialty veterinary ophthalmology hospital Animal Eye Consultants
of Iowa (animaleyeiowa@gmail.com) in USA or Oculus Veterinary Specialty Hospital
(oculusklinika@gmail.com) in Serbia, Europe to schedule an appointment so your pet
can be seen.