Persistent Pupillary Membranes

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                      General Information



Persistent pupillary membranes (PPM) are strands or remnants of

the pupillary membrane that covered the pupil during fetal

development.  Just before birth the pupillary membrane normally

disappears, and the pupil is revealed.  On close observation,

one can see small strands of the pupillary membrane after the

eyelids open;  however, these normally disappear within a few

weeks.



Occasionally the strands persist, and they may extend across the

pupil and from the iris to the inner surface of the transparent

front of the eyeball (cornea).  PPM may also extend and attach to

the front of the lens.



Small, white areas may appear on the cornea or lens;  these are

the points of attachment of the PPM.  They cause little problem

to your pet unless so many exist that they impair vision.



PPM is present in some breeds more than others.  PPM in Basenji

dogs is inherited.



                 Important Points in Treatment



    * Vision generally is not affected so much that surgical

    repair is necessary.



    * Only in unusual circumstances is surgical correction

    advantageous.