Exposure keratopathy syndrome (exophthalmos, lagophthalmos, and/or macroblepharon)(EKS)
Also known as: Exposure keratopathy · Exophthalmos-lagophthalmos-macroblepharon syndrome · Exposure keratitis · Brachycephalic ocular syndrome · Lagophthalmos-induced keratopathy
Overview
What it is
This condition involves chronic damage to the cornea, which is the clear protective outer layer of the eye. It occurs when the eyelids cannot fully close to moisten the eye, often due to protruding eyeballs, incomplete eyelid closure, or an abnormally large eyelid opening. Without proper moisture, the delicate surface of the eye becomes dry, inflamed, and vulnerable to injury.
How it presents
Symptoms usually appear in young dogs and include chronically red eyes, watery discharge, squinting, and pawing at the face. Owners may also notice cloudy spots on the eye, which indicate the development of painful corneal ulcers.
Treatment
Treatment typically requires surgical correction of the eyelids to help them close properly, alongside lifelong daily use of lubricating eye drops. The expected cost for surgical and medical management ranges from 1,000 to 4,500 EUR.
How it's tested
ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK)(ECVO-DOK)
Primary testEye examAugenuntersuchung durch ECVO-zertifizierten Augentierarzt (Dortmunder Kreis). Erkennt PRA, Katarakt, Entropium, CEA, MPP, RD u.a.
Issuing body: ECVO
Result scheme: Eye-ECVO
Affected breeds
14 of 14 breeds
BloodhoundAlso recommended
CavachonAlso recommended
Cavalier King Charles SpanielAlso recommended
CavapooAlso recommended
Clumber SpanielAlso recommended
Lhasa ApsoAlso recommended
MastiffAlso recommended
NewfoundlandAlso recommended
PekingeseAlso recommended
PugAlso recommended
PuggleAlso recommended
Saint BernardAlso recommended
Basset HoundOptional
Shih TzuOptional
Why is this linked to extreme breeding?
This condition can be tied to a trait dogs are bred for. These pages explain how it arises, which breeds are affected and how to recognize dogs bred for health.
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Exposure keratopathy syndrome (exophthalmos, lagophthalmos, and/or macroblepharon)?
This condition involves chronic damage to the cornea, which is the clear protective outer layer of the eye. It occurs when the eyelids cannot fully close to moisten the eye, often due to protruding eyeballs, incomplete eyelid closure, or an abnormally large eyelid opening. Without proper moisture, the delicate surface of the eye becomes dry, inflamed, and vulnerable to injury.
How is Exposure keratopathy syndrome (exophthalmos, lagophthalmos, and/or macroblepharon) tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK).
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bloodhound, Cavachon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cavapoo, Clumber Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Mastiff, Newfoundland.