Can growth on eye be removed?

jkoch

By Dr. John Koch

Question: My dog has developed a bright red growth on the inside corner of its eye. It is about the size of a pea. A friend of mine, who is a dog breeder, tells me this is a condition called cherry eye. She tells me that I will need to have this surgically removed. Could you give a little more information about cherry eye?

Answer: Cherry eye is the term sometimes used to describe what is actually a hypertrophy and prolapse of the gland of the nicitating membrane (also called the gland of the third eyelid). Years ago veterinarians simply removed the prolapsed gland and that took care of the problem once and for all.

The acceptance of surgical removal changed after several research projects demonstrated that this gland was responsible for approximately 50 percent of the moisture to the eye. By removing this much moisture, the eye was predisposed to drying and a serious problem called keratitis sicca. Keratitis sicca often leads to blindness and eventual loss of the entire globe.

Surgical techniques have now been developed that reposition the gland into its normal position, which is hidden beneath the lower eyelid. This works reasonably well, although reoccurrence may occasionally be seen. The advantage of repositioning over removal is that tear formation is preserved and the prospects for maintaining a healthy eye for the duration of the pet's entire life span is dramatically improved.

Another option would be to simply apply antibiotic ointment to help prevent inflammation and infection. Conservative management with ointment is unlikely to cause the prolapsed gland to return to its normal position. Unless surgery is performed it is probable the dog will have an esthetically unpleasing appearance for the rest of its life.

Dr. Koch is a Cape Girardeau area veterinarian.