Luxation of the lens
A lens luxation is a tipping of the lens either in the anterior chamber (anterior luxation), or in the posterior chamber (posterior luxation).
The lens is transparent and allows the rays of light to converge to the retina.
This lens is held into place inside the eye by zonular fibres. These zonular fibres can break. The lens is therefore not held into place, and a luxation is possible.
This affection is frequent in dogs and cats. It is necessary to see a vet, as it can lead to very serious complications.
A luxation of the lens can produce:
- a decrease in sight
- a change in the aspect of the eye
- a red eye
- a strong pain
- a white-bluish and opaque aspect of the cornea
Causes of luxation of the lens are numerous.
It can be primary. It is caused by a fragility of the zonular fibres that break. Many breeds are predisposed, such as the Brittany spaniel and shepherds.
It can be secondary: to an uveitis (main cause in cats), trauma, glaucoma, cataract…
The ophthalmologic examination includes the measure of the pressure within the eye, as very often a glaucoma occurs (rise in pressure).
The treatment must be put in place as soon as possible.
The treatment consists in taking out surgically the lens. It uses a micro-surgical technique. The surgical microscope is necessary.
This treatment is used to:
- decrease the pressure inside the eye (for a glaucoma)
- decrease the pain
- avoid aftereffects and complications
- to keep the sight
