The eye maintains its shape and internal pressure through a fluid called aqueous humor, which is continuously produced and drained through a specialized structure known as the iridocorneal angle. If this drainage system is abnormal or narrowed, fluid may not exit the eye properly, causing pressure to build. Over time, increased pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to glaucoma and irreversible blindness.
The gonioscopy examination is performed using a specialized lens placed on the surface of the eye after administering local anesthetic drops. This allows a veterinary ophthalmologist to directly visualize the drainage angle and surrounding structures. The test helps assess whether the angle is normal, narrowed, or malformed—conditions that may indicate an increased risk of developing glaucoma later in life.
Clinical findings from PLA gonioscopy screening are especially important in breeds that are genetically predisposed to primary glaucoma. In many dogs, structural abnormalities in the eye may be present long before clinical signs of disease appear. Early identification of these changes allows for proactive monitoring and, in some cases, preventive management strategies to reduce the risk of sudden or painful glaucoma attacks.
Results of PLA gonioscopy are generally categorized based on the appearance of the drainage angle:
- Normal Angle: The drainage structure appears open and functional, with no obvious abnormalities.
- Mild/Moderate Abnormality: The angle shows narrowing or structural changes that may increase future risk of impaired drainage.
- Severe Abnormality (At Risk): The drainage angle is significantly malformed or narrowed, indicating a high risk for developing glaucoma.
Because PLA gonioscopy is a physical eye examination, it does not change over time in the same way blood tests or DNA tests might. However, eye conditions can progress, so periodic re-evaluation may be recommended in at-risk dogs.
This test is highly valuable for veterinarians, breeders, and dog owners. Breeders use PLA gonioscopy results to make informed breeding decisions aimed at reducing the prevalence of inherited eye structure abnormalities that contribute to glaucoma risk. Selecting dogs with normal drainage angles helps improve long-term ocular health in breeding populations.
For dog owners, PLA screening provides important early insight into eye health. Dogs identified as at risk should undergo regular ophthalmic check-ups to monitor intraocular pressure and detect early signs of glaucoma. If disease develops, treatments such as pressure-lowering eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery may be recommended to preserve vision and comfort.
The PLA (Gonioscopy) Eye Health Test is a valuable veterinary screening tool that supports responsible breeding practices, promotes early detection of glaucoma risk, and helps protect long-term canine vision health.
