Dry Eye Syndrome (KeratoConjunctivitis Sicca, KCS)
What is KCS?
KeratoConjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) is a long term for "dry eye". When there is inadequate tear production or abnormal spreading of the tears the functions of tears are lost.
What are the functions of tears? Why are tears important?
The surface of the eye is covered by a thin layer of tears. The tears keep the surface wet so that oxygen can be taken into the cornea, rinse the surface of the eye, lubricate the eyelid movements and help control infection. With KCS the cornea is deprived of oxygen, irritated and often infected. The result can be corneal damage and possible blindness.
Tears are produced by tear glands under the upper eyelid and in the third eyelid. The eyelids and “third eyelid” act as "windshield wipers" to spread the tears across the cornea and to keep it clean. The tears then drain downward into the nose just as in humans. The proper combination of tear production and spreading is necessary to keep the cornea clear and healthy.
What causes KCS?
Allergies, infections, immune reactions, hormonal deficiencies, injuries, abnormal growths, nerve damage, and certain medications can decrease tear production or interfere with normal distribution of tears.
What treatment is there for KCS?
Treatment includes replacing the missing tear functions and stimulating more of the pet's own tears. Some patients respond to medication applied 2-3 times daily while others may require hourly treatment to keep the eyes as healthy as possible. If the underlying cause can be identified, it must also be treated.
What can I expect after treatment?
In many patients, if tear functions are restored, the surface of the eye can gradually improve and regain its normal health and transparency. In other patients there may be cloudiness or pigment which remains permanently on the cornea.
How long does treatment take?
Replacing the missing tear functions and improving your pet's own tear production can take from a few days to several months. However, most patients with tear deficiency will probably need some type of therapy for the rest of their life.
What treatments are necessary?
Tear replacement or supplementation -- consists of adding an artificial tear solution (drops) and covering it with a layer of ointment. The ointment mimics the oily outer layer of normal tears to provide lubrication and reduce evaporation of the tears. Neither the tear solution nor the ointment contains medication and therefore can be used as often as is physically possible. In most patients the more often this combination (drops/ointment) is used the better the results. Of course if your pet begins making enough tears of his/her own the artificial tears are less important.
Tear stimulation -- medication is intended to increase production of your pet's own tears. The pet’s normal tears are the best possible therapy and will give the best chance for the cornea to be healthy again. It is important to continue tear stimulation and have the tear production measured periodically. DO NOT discontinue the tear stimulant until advised to do so by the doctor evaluating your pet's eyes.
Control of infection or inflammation . If necessary these medications are usually used only temporarily until these conditions are controlled.
Frequent treatment may be necessary initially to increase the likelihood of a favorable response. It is rare for a pet with KCS not to improve if treatment can be given as prescribed.
Should all the mucus be rinsed out of the eye before applying eye drops?
Since some mucus is a normal part of the tears, mucus should not be rinsed out of the eye. Adequate artificial tear solution should be used to loosen the mucus until it is blinked out and cleaned off the eyelids. Keeping the hair short around the eyes makes it easier to keep clean.
Please contact us with questions about any eye conditions your pet may have.
