Virtual Library | SARDS Causes and Treatment
SARDS, or Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, is an untreatable and irreversible cause of vision loss in dogs. This condition appears to be most similar to a human autoimmune disease affecting the retina. Clinical signs of SARDS include a sudden decline in vision or blindness, occurring within days to weeks; conjunctival hyperemia (red eyes); and dilated pupils. Read on to learn more about SARDS symptoms, treatment and prognosis.
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SARDS, or Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, is an untreatable and irreversible cause of vision loss in dogs. While any dog can get SARDS, it occurs more often in overweight, middle-aged to older female spayed dogs. Included in this group are small breeds (both pure and mixed) including Dachshunds, Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers and Brittany Spaniels.
The clinical signs of SARDS include a sudden decline in vision or blindness, occurring within days to weeks; conjunctival hyperemia (red eyes); and dilated pupils. Systemic signs are quite common, occurring in 40-60% of patients, and may be noticeable before vision loss. Therefore, it is important to note any signs of:
- Weight gain
- Increased appetite
- Increased drinking and urination
- Skin/haircoat changes (signs suggestive of Cushing’s disease or hyperadrenocorticism)
Aside from dilated pupils, the patient’s eyes will appear normal on exam. While the retina will not have visible changes on examination, advanced diagnostic testing will reveal a complete loss of function. For these reasons, we recommend further testing to officially diagnose SARDS.
We do not fully understand the exact underlying cause of SARDS. This condition appears to be most similar to a human autoimmune disease affecting the retina.
The current research is focused on more clearly delineating an underlying cause and potential autoimmune component for SARDS in dogs.
The gold standard test for diagnosis of SARDS is an electroretinogram (ERG), which records the electrical function of the retina. In SARDS patients, ERG results will be “flatline,” meaning there is no appreciable electrical function within the retina. This test is extremely helpful and important in distinguishing between other causes of blindness, such as optic nerve disease or central blindness. Causes such as these will produce normal ERG results.
Sadly, there is no current treatment available for SARDS, nor is there a cure. Although some patients may test positive for Cushing’s, treatment for this condition is generally not recommended for pets with SARDS. The clinical signs rarely improve with treatment, but often dissipate naturally over the following few months.
Experimental treatments for SARDS include injections of human immunoglobulin, administered by IV or into the back of the eye (vitreous cavity), combined with a high level of oral immunosuppressive medications. However, the efficacy and side effects have not yet been reported in the peer-reviewed veterinary ophthalmology literature. In some instances, when the clinical picture is not definitive for a diagnosis of SARDS, your veterinary ophthalmologist may recommend a trial course of oral prednisone and doxycycline, since there is a small portion of dogs who present similarly and are ultimately diagnosed with immune retinitis (which is more responsive to medical therapy).
SARDS-related blindness is permanent. The good news, however, is that the patient does not experience any pain or discomfort resulting from vision loss. Dogs with this condition can still have an exceptional quality of life after vision loss. Additionally, the associated clinical signs (increased drinking, urination, appetite) generally subside over time.
To help pet owners and their canine companions with low or no vision, we offer our “Be Kind, I’m Blind” brochure.
This free guide covers everything from training, exercise, eye health and meeting dog friends, to tips for keeping your pet’s home environment safe and familiar.
We are happy to provide these along with a special “Be Kind, I’m Blind” bandana just for your pet. When meeting people while you are out and about, it lets them know to approach your pet slowly and with care (and it’s a great conversation starter!).
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Visit our blog, In Focus, to learn more about the pets we see, the treatments we offer and the services we provide to help your pet “see a better life.”