Diagnosis and Test

Introduction

PRA is diagnosed through extensive eye examinations. In many cases, general practice veterinarians will refer the owner to a specialized veterinary ophthalmologist to perform the diagnostic tests and arrive at a diagnosis.

How Progressive Retinal Atrophy is Diagnosed

Routine eye examination can suggest the presence of progressive retinal atrophy. A definitive diagnosis typically is made by a veterinary eye specialist using an electroretinogram (ERG) to measure the retina’s ability to respond to light. During this examination, one electrode is placed on the dog’s cornea, and neutral electrodes are placed on the skin around the eye. The results of this test are conclusive.

Special Notes

Unfortunately, PRA is irreversible and untreatable. Fortunately, however, most affected dogs adjust quite well to blindness, as long as their living environment is not rearranged very frequently.

Treatment and Prognosis

Introduction

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is always bilateral (affects both eyes) and always ends in complete blindness.

Treatment Options

There is no way to reverse or to treat retinal degeneration, or the total loss of vision that inevitably accompanies it.

Prognosis

Progressive retinal atrophy will eventually result in blindness. There is no cure, prevention, or treatment currently available. However, with minor environmental accommodation (avoid rearranging the furniture, etc.), most affected dogs adjust very well to vision loss and can live long and healthy lives, particularly if their sight deteriorates gradually.