Abbreviated Name: PPM

Disease Description: A developmental abnormality where the membrane forming the iris does not form properly.

Inherit Mode: Inheritance is not defined.

Disease Symptom: Generally persistent pupillary membranes cause no problems. However if attached to the cornea or lens, the strands can cause opacities which may interfere with vision. The cataracts that can occur with PPM usually don't worsen.

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: PPM are seen in young dogs. You or your veterinarian may notice small white spots in your dog's eyes, or you may suspect that your dog's vision is impaired if the condition is severe. With an ophthalmoscope, your veterinarian will be able to see the membranous strands, and whether they adhere to the lens or cornea.

Treat Method: There is no treatment for the membranes themselves and in most cases there are no associated problems. If there is significant edema or "bluing" of the cornea due to adhesions, hyperosmotic eyedrops may help. Surgery may be required if there are extensive cataracts.

Breeder Advice: This is a particularly common defect in basenjis. Affected dogs and their close relatives should not be used for breeding. Ideally, all basenjis, even those not obviously affected, should have careful ophthalmic examinations for PPM before their use in a breeding programme. The defect is also significant in Welsh corgis (Pembroke and Cardigan), chow chows, and mastiffs. Affected dogs and their close relatives should not be used for breeding. In other breeds, parents and siblings of affected dogs should be examined ophthalmoscopically. If close relatives are affected, breeding is discouraged. Where PPM appears to be an isolated incident, breeders may use their discretion.

Disease Description Source: Link