Posterior Segment Disorders:  Acquired

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                      General Information



An acquired posterior segment eye disorder is an abnormal

condition of the back part of the eyeball that occurs after

birth.



Inherited forms of acquired posterior segment eye disorders

include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), central progressive

retinal atrophy, and hemeralopia.  Non-inherited forms may be

inflammatory, nutritional, vascular (from blood disorders),

traumatic (from injuries) or neoplastic (from cancerous or

noncancerous tumors).



Blindness that may result from acquired posterior segment eye

disorders ranges from partial and/or temporary, to complete

and/or permanent.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  There is no treatment for inherited posterior segment eye

    disorders.  Affected animals should not be used for

    breeding.



2.  Non-inherited disorders may respond to treatment unless the

    disease has already done extensive damage to vital structures

    of the eye.



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