Buphthalmos

                          -----------

                      (enlarged eyeball)



                      General Information



Buphthalmos is a condition in which the eyeball has enlarged.  It

represents the final stage of prolonged and excessive pressure

(glaucoma) within the eyeball.  Once the eye has enlarged

noticeably, it is permanently blind.  The enlarged eye may be

painful.  Signs of pain include decreased play, depression and

rubbing the affected eye.



Occasionally the pressure within the eye will decrease on its

own, and pain will disappear.  If this should occur, your pet

may exist in comfort with only minimal treatment, as long as

other complications do not occur and you are content with the

cosmetic appearance of the eye.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  The treatment for buphthalmos varies from minimal medication

    to complex procedures requiring general anesthesia.  Some of

    the more common procedures include the use of silicone

    implants and cryotherapy (a method using controlled

    freezing).  Removal of the eyeball (enucleation) is also

    considered in certain cases. 



2.  Ongoing disease and degenerative processes may cause

    differences in the eye's appearance over time.  If changes

    occur that affect the general well-being of the patient or

    further detract from the pet's appearance, we will make

    recommendations according to your pet's individual needs.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * The eye appears to be painful.



    * The eye's appearance worsens.



    * The eye continually appears dry.



    * During blinking, the eyelid edges do not meet.