EPISCLERITE NODULAR GRANULOMATOSA EM CÃO SEM RAÇA DEFINIDA: RELATO DE CASO

Abstract

It is reported the occurrence of granulomatous nodular episcleritis in a 3-year-old female mixed breed dog, weighing 23 kg, presenting a history of progressive conjunctival hyperemia with a nodular volume increase in the sclera of both eyes two months ago. The dog was being treated for about two years for bilateral glaucoma, which was being controlled. The ophthalmic examination revealed a positive visual threat reflex, a negative pupillary light reflex, corneal edema, posterior synechia and intraocular pressure of 6 mmHg in the left eye. In the right eye the intraocular pressure was 13 mmHg, and the threat and pupillary light reflexes were positive. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of epithelioid macrophages, plasma cells, neovascularization, fibrous connective tissue and lymphocytes. In the left sclera lymphocytes formed aggregates and in the right, lymphocytes were diffusely distributed and in greater quantity, diagnosing granulomatous nodular episcleritis. This report describes a case of granulomatous nodular episcleritis in a mixed breed dog, an uncommon disease, according to literature, which affects some dog breeds, such as: Collie, Cocker Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever. Furthermore, the response to systemic cyclosporine therapy must be emphasized, since the literature information on drug efficacy in this disease is also scarce.