Lens luxation

What is lens luxation?

Lens luxation is the term used for a displacement of the lens (the transparent structure within the eye, which is responsible for focusing incoming light to the back of the eye). We generally regard lens luxation as an emergency as it can cause the pressure inside the eye to rise, which may result in irreversible damage to the eye.

Why does it occur?

We generally distinguish between primary lens luxation and secondary lens luxation. Primary lens luxation is an instability of the lens in the absence of other eye disorders, often encountered in terrier breeds. Secondary lens luxation on the other hand, is a consequence of other underlying eye disorders (including chronic inflammation in the eye, chronic elevation of the pressure inside the eye, trauma, etc.).

Can both eyes be affected?

Yes, we generally regard primary lens luxation as a bilateral disease. However this doesn’t mean that both lenses are completely displaced at the time of diagnosis. Secondary lens luxation may involve one or both eyes, depending on the nature of the underlying disease.

Are any breeds predisposed?

Whereas secondary lens luxation may occur in any breed, there is a breed predisposition for primary lens luxation in a variety of terrier breeds, terrier crosses, Tibetan Terriers, Shar Pei, etc. Genetic tests to identify a genetic predisposition are available for certain breeds.