Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a condition of the ocular surface (cornea and conjunctiva) secondary to a deficiency of one of the phases of the tear film and has a prevalence in dogs of 0.4%, according to the IVO.

Qualitative QCS is characterized by a pathological decrease of lipid or mucoid components in the tear film. This leads to tear hyperosmolarity due to increased evaporation. It is more common in brachiocephalic breeds and in cases of lagophthalmos.

In this study, conducted in collaboration with the Instituto Veterinario Oftalmologico (IVO), a comprehensive evaluation of different therapeutic approaches for qualitative QCS was performed.

Ten dogs were selected, including five brachiocephalic breeds, with a two-month follow-up. The selected patients had blepharospasm, epiphora, increased serous secretions compared to normal, or a combination of these symptoms at the first visit and, in order to be included in the present study, had to have Schirmer’s test (STT-1) values above 10 mm/min.

Cases with corneal ulcer and those under treatment that could interfere with the diagnostic tests were excluded. A series of diagnostic tests were performed, such as Schirmer’s test (STT-1), fluorescein test, break-up time (TBUT), lissamine green test, impression cytology (CIC) and OSA-VET®.

The selected treatment included the use of topical moisturizers and lubricants as tear replacements. In addition, Dr+Vet’s Lacrimalis food supplement, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lactoferrin, vitamins C and E, Zinc and Copper, was implemented.

The results indicated significant improvements in print cytology, interferometry and tear film breakup time. There was a slight reduction in tear production, possibly attributed to decreased compensatory reflex due to hyperosmolarity.

Conclusions

This clinical case comparison underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of qualitative QCS. The combination of topical moisturizers and lubricants with the supplement Lacrimalis offers a promising perspective in the management of this condition.

The clinical case comparison performed by the IVO provides a valuable contribution to the approach to qualitative QCS in dogs. We thank Drs. Maria Simó and Francisco Simó for their collaboration in this first approach to the use of nutraceuticals in ocular diseases in dogs.

You can consult the comparative of clinical cases here (in spanish): COMPARATIVA DE 10 CASOS CLÍNICOS EN PERROS CON KCS CUALITATIVA