Chronic superficial keratitis, or pannus, is an immune-related eye disease in which lesions develop on the cornea. Pannus management requires lifelong treatment with topical corticosteroids to prevent vision impairment or blindness. The disease affects many dog breeds but occurs most often in the German Shepherd Dog. Belgian shepherd breeds, such as the Belgian Malinois, Tervuren, and Sheepdog are also frequently diagnosed.

The Evans Lab is conducting a study to identify genetic risk factors for pannus. Blood samples are needed from German Shepherd Dogs and Belgian Tervurens, Malinois, or Sheepdogs (Groenendael) diagnosed with pannus. Blood samples from dogs of these breeds who are at least 8 years old with no history of eye disease and no close relatives with pannus are also needed. Please contact us at caninegenetics.evanslab@gmail.com if you are interested in participating!