Progressive Retinal Atrophy CCDC66-variant · CCDC66-PRA · Progressive retinal atrophy in Schapendoes · gPRA (CCDC66) · Progressive Netzhautatrophie (CCDC66) · Retinal atrophy, progressive, CCDC66-related · EOPRA · Early-onset progressive retinal atrophy (EOPRA) · gPRA^SPD
This condition is an inherited eye disease caused by a genetic mutation in the CCDC66 gene, which leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Depending on the breed, it manifests as generalized progressive retinal atrophy (gPRA) in the Schapendoes or early-onset progressive retinal atrophy (EOPRA) in the Portuguese Water Dog. As these light-sensing cells break down, the eye permanently loses its ability to send visual signals to the brain.
Owners typically first notice night blindness, where the dog hesitates or bumps into objects in dim light, which eventually progresses to complete daytime blindness. Depending on the specific breed form, these symptoms can begin to appear in early adulthood or even earlier.
There is no cure for this condition, and it eventually leads to permanent blindness. Management focuses on supportive care and regular veterinary ophthalmologist check-ups, with lifetime costs typically ranging from 500 to 2000 EUR.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
More conditions affecting the Eyes.