Distichiasis is a common condition in dogs where extra hairs grow out of the eyelash area. These hairs emerge from the Meibomian gland openings located along the margin of the eyelid. These extra hairs are not supposed to be present and can cause eye irritation and discomfort, leading to potential corneal ulcers. The severity of the condition depends on factors such as stiffness, length, location, and number of extra hairs.
It's important to differentiate distichiasis from entropion, which involves an inward roll of the eyelid causing eye irritation from normal eyelashes or hair.
Signs and Diagnosis
Untreated distichiasis can lead to corneal ulcers, chronic eye and eyelid pain, and excessive tearing. Dogs affected by distichiasis may show increased blinking, tear streaks, and squinting. However, they typically do not paw at the eye. Milder cases may involve small, softer hairs that can be easily overlooked.
Distichiasis is often seen in puppies or young adults and is usually diagnosed before a dog reaches three years of age. While it can affect any dog, it is considered one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs and one of the most common congenital eye problems. Certain breeds seem to be predisposed to distichiasis, including Cocker Spaniels, English Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Yorkshire Terriers, among others.
Treatment
Several treatment options exist, and the choice will depend on the number of extra hairs and the available equipment at the veterinary facility. General anesthesia is typically required for these procedures, although in rare cases, a very cooperative dog might undergo treatment with only a local anesthetic.
- Cryosurgery: Freezes the lid margin at the areas with extra hairs to destroy the hair follicles and prevent regrowth.
- Surgery: Physically removes the extra hairs permanently.
- Electrolysis: Removes the extra hairs permanently by destroying the hair follicles.
No procedure can be guaranteed to be 100% effective, so retreatment may be necessary in some cases. Multiple follow-up visits will be required to monitor regrowth.
Plucking hairs is not a permanent solution, as the hairs will grow back. Lid splitting and thermocautery are not recommended treatment options, as they can lead to severe permanent scarring and entropion.
Post-operative inflammation in the eyelids is common and will be treated by the veterinarian.
Prognosis and Breeding
Once the extra hairs have been removed permanently, the prognosis is good. However, dogs with distichiasis should not be used for breeding due to the hereditary nature of the condition. Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the prevalence of distichiasis in certain breeds.
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