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This is image of the pupil light reflex abnormality in a dog suffering from Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome - SARDS.

Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) Diagnosis

Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) is a disease in dogs that results in rapid and permanent blindness. It usually occurs in middle-aged to older dogs, with certain breeds appearing to be predisposed. The disease is characterized by sudden and complete loss of vision over a period of days to weeks. Currently, the exact cause of SARDS is not fully understood, but it's believed to be an autoimmune disorder, with the body's immune system attacking the retinal cells.

This is the image of the neuron affected by Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome in a dog.

Early Detection of SARDS

Many dogs with SARDS begin to exhibit mild visual issues several years before the sudden onset of blindness. If your dog is intermittently experiencing vision problems during the night, struggling to see small treats, or having difficulty seeing in dim light, particularly after transitioning from a very bright environment, it is essential to contact your local veterinary ophthalmologist immediately. Dogs in the early stage of the disease will exhibit an abnormal pupil light reflex response to red light, which is an easily administered test that you, your local veterinarian, or local ophthalmologist can perform. If you or your veterinarian are interested in conducting pupil light reflex testing for SARDS, feel free to contact our institution at animaleyeiowa@gmail.com, and we can arrange to send you a rental unit for the testing.

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IMPORTANT FACTS
SARDS can often affect other organs, leading to symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, abnormal appetite, weight gain, and a potbellied appearance.
In some patients, SARDS can lead to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, resulting in decreased hearing, reduced sense of smell, lethargy, and a brain-fog-like appearance (manifested as slowed cognitive capabilities, staring at walls for extended periods of time, and slow reactions to external stimuli).
Various studies have shown that dogs with SARDS often experience elevated level of adrenal gland hormones, increased blood pressure, low levels of thyroid hormones, an increased risk of blood clots, inflammation of the pancreas, liver disease, and kidney disease. Careful evaluation and long-term monitoring of systemic organ function is an essential component of preventing more serious health problems in dogs with SARDS.
Molecular analysis of SARDS tissue has revealed immunological reaction markers typically observed in organ transplant rejection reactions, with a strong component of complement activation. As a result, successful therapy for SARDS often involves the use of multiple immunosuppressive medications, similar to those given to organ transplant patients, in combination with the administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). IVIg is typically injected into the patient's eye.
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