Disease overview

Cataracts are an eye condition that involves the lens of the eye. The lens is a transparent structure that allows for focusing of light. With cataracts, the lens is no longer transparent and turns to a milky white due to fiber disorganization. Light is no longer able to reach the retina, leading to blindness.

Gene name

FYCO1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

This is an early-onset form of cataracts. Clinical signs present as early as a few weeks of age. Affected dogs will have a cloudy haze in their pupils, which can become progressively worse. Vision loss will be apparent.

How is it diagnosed

Thorough examination of the eyes and clinical signs. A veterinary ophthalmologic exam can determine if there are changes in the eye that have or will lead to vision loss. Genetic testing is necessary to determine if there is an underlying genetic cause, which can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Rudd Garces G, Christen M, Loechel R, Jagannathan V, Leeb T. FYCO1 Frameshift Deletion in Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Dogs with Juvenile Cataract. Genes (Basel). 2022 Feb 11;13(2):334. doi: 10.3390/genes13020334. PMID: 35205377; PMCID: PMC8871958.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.