
What are the signs of congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca and ichthyosiform dermatosis in dogs?
Reviewed by Dial A Vet Team
Category
Eye
Traits
Congenital Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca and Ichthyosiform Dermatosis
Question Number
Q1
Pet Owner Description
My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been acting differently lately and I came across congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca and ichthyosiform dermatosis while researching. What symptoms should I actually look for?

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Answer
CKCSID symptoms include severe dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), leading to corneal ulcers, infections, and ocular discharge. Affected puppies have rough, curly coats and thick, crusty paw pads, which can crack and cause pain. As the dog matures, the coat remains sparse and frizzy, and the skin thickens and darkens around the belly. The FAM83H gene mutation responsible for this condition can be identified with a DNA test. Getting your vet involved now is important. If you want to talk it through first, our vets can help you understand what questions to ask and what tests might be useful.
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