Pictured below is a closeup of the right eye of a dog. Look closely at the eye and then answer the following questions: Name the abnormal structure found in this eye. Will this condition cause problems? What breeds of dogs are most commonly affected?
Diagnosis: Iridociliary (Uveal) Cyst
Iridociliary cysts are pigmented transparent structures which occur in dogs, cats and horses. The cysts can be attached to the iris as in this patient or free floating. Most are benign and require no specific therapy. On rare occasions, I have seen the cysts grow large enough to block vision. I have also had one patient develop so many cysts that they caused glaucoma (increased ocular pressure). In dogs, the condition is most often seen in Boston terriers, Golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers. They are thought to be caused by trauma or damage to the uveal tract. I have also seen them in pups with congenital cysts.
Source:
-Grey, Heather. ‘Iridociliary Cysts’ Associate Database, VIN last updated 10/22/2006.