PubMed ID: 11843127
Author(s): Whiteman AL, Klauss G, Miller PE, Dubielzig RR. Morphologic features of degeneration and cell death in the neurosensory retina in dogs with primary angle-closure glaucoma. Am J Vet Res. 2002 Feb;63(2):257-61. PMID 11843127
Journal: American Journal Of Veterinary Research, Volume 63, Issue 2, Feb 2002
OBJECTIVE To investigate cellular death in the neurosensory portion of the retina during the first 7 days after onset of clinical signs of overt primary angleclosure glaucoma (PACG) in dogs.
SAMPLE POPULATION 14 globes from dogs with PACG and 2 normotensive globes from dogs with PACG in the opposite eye.
PROCEDURES Retinas were examined via light microscopy and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotin-dUTP nick end-labeling.
RESULTS Necrosis of ganglion cells and segmental degeneration of the nerve fiber layer rapidly progressed to scattered full-thickness retinal attenuation and disorganization. Apoptosis was detectable within 1 day after onset of PACG and was prominent by 3 days. Necrosis of ganglion cells was significantly greater in retinas affected for 1 day. In contrast, apoptosis in the ganglion cell layer was significantly greater in retinas affected for > 1 day, compared with retinas affected for < or = 1 day. End-stage retinal atrophy was seen by day 7.
CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The presence of necrotic ganglion cells within 1 day after onset of clinical signs suggests a narrow window of opportunity to initiate effective therapy in overt PACG. Photoreceptor death is an important and striking aspect of neurosensory retinal degeneration after acute onset of PACG.