Disease overview

Multifocal retinopathy 2 is an inherited eye disease that is characterized by multiple, discrete circular areas of retinal detachment. The slowly progressive disease appears around 15 weeks of age, presenting with different colored "blisters" in the eye. This does not typically lead to blindness, but some healed blisters may lead to vision loss.

Gene name

BEST1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Fluid accumulation under the detached retina results in gray, tan, orange or pink “blisters” in the eye. Though blindness is not typical, some affected dogs do experience vision loss.

How is it diagnosed

Thorough examination of the eyes and clinical signs. A veterinary ophthalmologic exam can determine areas of retinal detachment and if there are changes in the eye that have or could 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

Guziewicz KE, Zangerl B, Lindauer SJ, Mullins RF, Sandmeyer LS, Grahn BH, Stone EM, Acland GM, Aguirre GD. Bestrophin gene mutations cause canine multifocal retinopathy: a novel animal model for best disease. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2007 May;48(5):1959-67. doi: 10.1167/iovs.06-1374. PMID: 17460247; PMCID: PMC1931491.

Disclaimer

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