Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Syndrome (VKH) has been well described in humans. A similar syndrome occurs in dogs, now known as Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-Like Syndrome (VKH) or Uveodermatologic Syndrome. In dogs, it consists of a uveitis (inflammation in the eye) that will eventually lead to blindness. This is generally the first indication that owners take note of, and it is usually very painful for the dog. The dog may be squinting, have decreased vision, frequent tearing and other signs of pain associated with the eyes, occurring bilaterally, not just in one eye. Other symptoms include loss of pigmentation at the skin and nose, as well as a whitening of the coat. This loss of pigmentation can occur in various areas of the body, but not necessarily all of them in each case. In humans, deafness and meningitis may also occur, but we do not see this in dogs.
VKH is immune-mediated and considered to be a multifaceted, genetic disease. In the dog, the immune system attacks the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, which are present in the skin, retina and uvea of the eye. It is uncertain as to what is causing the Syndrome to suddenly start, but most dogs show signs between 1-2 years of age. Akitas are the most affected of all breeds and male dogs are more affected than female dogs.
Treatment consists of controlling the inflammation, most commonly with steroids such as prednisolone. Often times, because this will be a lifelong medication and it has its own untoward side effects, many dogs are switched to cyclosporine or azathioprine, also immune modulating medications. However, in most cases because the dogs are so painful in their eyes and the cost of the medications, enucleation is the best option. While blindness is a frightening suggestion to owners, it is surprising how well these dogs do and how much happier they are with the pain relief.
Unfortunately, at this time there is not a genetic marker for VKH. Knowing pedigrees and dogs that have either produced VKH or developed the disease themselves (or siblings have) is the best way to prevent this from occurring in a breeding program.
