Plasma Cell Infiltrate of the Third Eyelids

Plasma Cell Infiltrate of the Third Eyelids

Plasma cell infiltrate of the third eyelids is an immune-mediated ophthalmic disease. The ocular immune system doesn’t recognize the conjunctiva of the third eyelid as part of the eye, causing an inflammatory response. The third eyelid margin, usually darkly pigmented, loses pigmentation. The outer aspect of the conjunctiva thickens, with a “cobble stone” appearance.

Chronic Superficial Keratitis, commonly called “Pannus” is an immune- mediated disease of the cornea. Plasma cell infiltrate of the third eyelids has also been called “Pannus”. Like the corneal form, it is most frequently diagnosed in Shepherd breeds. Both Chronic Superficial Keratitis and Plasma Cell Infiltrate of the third eyelids can occur together in some dogs.

Plasma Cell Infiltrate can be successfully treated with topical corticosteroids, frequently in combination with immuno-modulators such as Cyclosporine or Tacrolimus. However, it is not a curable disease- only controllable. Medications are frequently treated initially with medications 3 times daily. The frequency of medications is slowly reduced as the disease becomes controlled. The least amount of medication needed to control the disease is continued long term. Discontinuing medications will cause a rapid return of the inflammation, which may be more difficult to bring under control again.