Nuclear Sclerosis

Nuclear sclerosis, or lenticular sclerosis, is a physiologic age-related change seen in dogs older than approximately seven years and more commonly in those older than nine years. It causes a gray-blue haze within the lens. Continuous production of new lens fibers throughout life compresses older nuclear fibers, increasing lens density and refractive index and producing light scatter.

Nuclear sclerosis is bilateral and symmetric and is more apparent when the eye is viewed from the side than from the front. Unlike cataract, it does not significantly impair visual quality and does not prevent ophthalmoscopic examination of the fundus.

Treatment

Diagnosis is established by ophthalmic examination. Treatment is not necessary.

Nuclear sclerosis and iris atrophy in a dog.

Nuclear sclerosis in a dog.

Adapted from the Atlas of Ocular Diseases in Dogs and Cats by Dr. Siniša D. Grozdanić and colleagues. © Animal Eye Consultants of Iowa. The text and clinical images on this page are original content from the authors' own clinical practice and research, and may not be reproduced, distributed, or repurposed without permission.

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