Uveal Lymphoma

According to the source, ocular lymphoma is the most common clinical manifestation of lymphosarcoma after lymphadenopathy, and approximately 37% of affected dogs develop ocular signs. Lymphoma should therefore be included in the differential diagnosis for dogs with uveitis even when lymphadenopathy is absent. Ocular lymphoma is usually bilateral, although unilateral disease can occur. Anterior uveitis is the predominant presentation, the iris may become lighter, and panuveitis is also common. Conjunctival and corneal infiltrates, hyphema, hypopyon, retinal hemorrhage, glaucoma, corneal edema, and corneal neovascularization may be present.

Treatment

Diagnosis may be established by detailed ophthalmic and general clinical examination, cytologic analysis of aqueous humor, and PCR. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry, lymph-node biopsy, thoracic radiography, and bone-marrow aspiration are recommended. Cats should be tested for FeLV, FIV, and FIP according to the source. Treatment consists of topical corticosteroids and systemic chemotherapy.

Uveal lymphoma in a dog. Corneal edema and iris bombe are visible.

Uveal lymphoma in a dog with corneal edema and deep corneal vascularization.

Uveal lymphoma in a cat. Uveal ectropion, an irregular pupil, and fibrin and blood in the anterior chamber are visible.

Uveal lymphoma in a cat.

Cross-section of the globe from the same cat. Histopathology confirmed lymphoma of the ciliary body and iris.

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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