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Episcleritis (Inflammation of the Layer between the Sclera and Conjunctiva on the Eyeball) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Episcleritis is an inflammatory disease of the layer between the scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front. (white of the eye) and the conjunctiva of the eye in dogs. This condition can lead to redness and discomfort in the affected eye.

The most important facts at a glance

Episcleritis in dogs is an inflammation of the episcleral layer between the conjunctiva and scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front., which is often immune-mediated. This disease can be influenced by genetic factors, with breeds such as Collies and Cocker Spaniels being more susceptible. Environmental factors and systemic diseases can also play a role. Symptoms include red eyes, painless nodules on the scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front., and eye discharge. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by a thorough eye examination and possibly by additional tests such as blood tests or biopsies. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. and, in immune-mediated cases, immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. agents. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good if the disease is detected and treated early. Preventive measures are difficult to implement because the exact cause is often unknown, but a balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups can help. Research focuses on the genetic and environmental causes as well as on the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Causes

Episcleritis in dogs affects the episcleral layer, which is located between the outer conjunctiva and the underlying scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front.. This layer contains blood vessels that swell when inflamed, causing the characteristic symptoms. The exact cause of episcleritis is often unknown, but it is considered to be immune-mediated, meaning that the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.

Some scientific studies suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to this disease. Certain dog breeds such as Collies and Cocker Spaniels appear to be more susceptible to episcleritis. In addition, environmental factors and systemic diseases that affect the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. may be associated with the development of the disease.

Other possible causes include bacterial or viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections that can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. an inflammatory response in the episcleral layer. Sometimes, episcleritis can also occur in association with other systemic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritisArthritis is an inflammation of the joints that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility. There are many forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. or lupus. In rare cases, an injury to the eye can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. the inflammation.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

Watery, Slimy, Purulent, or Bloody Nasal Discharge

A common symptom of episcleritis in dogs is redness of the affected eye, which is caused by the dilationDilation refers to the widening or expansion of a hollow organ or vessel. It can be physiological (normal) or pathological (due to disease). of blood vessels in the episcleral layer. The redness may be limited to a small area or affect the entire eye. Often, the affected eye is also sensitive to light and there may be a watery discharge.

Dogs with episcleritis may also show signs of discomfort or Pain, such as frequent blinking or rubbing of the eye. In some cases, mild Eyelid edemaAn edema is a buildup of fluid in the body’s tissues, leading to Swelling. Edema can be localized or generalized and is often a sign of an underlying condition. or thickening of the affected tissues may occur. It is important to take these symptoms seriously and seek veterinary help to prevent the condition from worsening.

In chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. or severe episcleritis, the symptoms can become more intense and impair the dog’s vision. The severity of the symptoms can vary, and some dogs may only show mild discomfort, while others may have significant problems.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of episcleritis usually begins with a thorough clinical examination of the eye by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will take the dog’s historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. and ask about possible pre-existing conditions or triggers. A detailed eye examination will be performed to assess the redness, Swelling, and other signs of the condition.

Additional diagnostic tests may be required to rule out other eye conditions and determine the cause of the episcleritis. These may include blood tests to detect systemic diseases, or special eye examinations such as slit-lamp examination, which allows a detailed view of the eye structures. In some cases, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of the affected tissues may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Since episcleritis often has an immune-mediated component, the veterinarian may also perform tests to assess the dog’s immune function. A quick and accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is important to begin appropriate treatment and avoid complications.

Therapy

The treatment of episcleritis in dogs depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In many cases, anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. are used to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. (NSAIDsNSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a class of medications used to relieve pain, reduce inflammatory conditions, and lower fever without using steroidal agents. They are a commonly used pain reliever in veterinary medicine.) or corticosteroid eye drops.

In immune-mediated forms of episcleritis, immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. drugs may be needed to control the overactive immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens.. These medications must be carefully dosed and monitored, as they can have potential side effects. The veterinarian will regularly monitor the course of treatment to assess effectiveness and make adjustments.

In addition to drug treatment, it can be helpful to regularly flush the affected eye with a sterile saline solution to relieve irritation and improve eye hygiene. In more severe cases, or if drug treatment is not sufficient, surgery may be required to remove or repair the affected tissues.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with episcleritis is generally good, especially if the condition is diagnosed and treated early. Most dogs respond well to treatment and recover completely. In some cases, however, episcleritis can become chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. and require long-term therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. to control symptoms and prevent relapses.

Dogs that respond to treatment with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. drugs usually have a good prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop.. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor progress and ensure that treatment remains effective. In rare cases, complications can occur that can affect vision.

It is important to follow the veterinarian’s treatment recommendations carefully and watch for signs of relapse. With early intervention and consistent treatment, most dogs can lead a normal and active life.

Prevention

Since the exact cause of episcleritis is often unknown, there are no specific measures to prevent the disease. However, general measures to promote eye health and strengthen the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. can be helpful. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can help support the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body..

Regular veterinary examinations are important to monitor the dog’s overall health and detect potential problems early. In dogs that are genetically predisposed to episcleritis, early monitoring and intervention can help minimize the severity of the disease.

It is also advisable to check the dog’s eyes regularly and watch for signs of redness, Swelling, or discomfort. If episcleritis or other eye conditions are suspected, veterinary help should be sought immediately to avoid complications and ensure the best possible treatment.

Outlook on current research

Episcleritis in dogs is an inflammatory disease that plays an important role in veterinary medical research because it can significantly affect the well-being and quality of life of affected animals. Currently, research focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms that lead to the development of this disease. Researchers are investigating the role of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. in the development of episcleritis, as it is believed that a dysregulation of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. plays a central role. By studying the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. in dogs with episcleritis, scientists hope to develop new therapeutic approaches that specifically intervene in the inflammatory process and thus alleviate the symptoms.

Another focus of current research is the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to episcleritis. Certain dog breeds appear to be more susceptible to this disease, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role. Through genetic studies, researchers are trying to identify specific genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing episcleritis. These findings could help to identify risk groups early on and develop preventive measures in the future.

In addition, the role of environmental factors in the development of episcleritis is being investigated. Certain environmental conditions, such as allergens or pollutants, could increase the risk of developing this disease. Long-term epidemiological studies are needed to better understand the exact relationships between environmental factors and episcleritis. These findings could help to develop preventive strategies to reduce exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to potential triggers of the disease.

Another promising area of research is the development of new diagnostic methods for the early detection of episcleritis. Currently, the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is mainly based on clinical examinations and the exclusion of other eye diseases. Advances in imaging technology could make it possible to visualize the inflammatory processes in the eye in more detail and thus make the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. more precise. This could lead to faster and more accurate identification of the disease and improve therapeutic options.

Finally, the development of new treatment options for episcleritis is also being intensively researched. In addition to classical drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain., alternative approaches such as immunotherapy are being worked on. These therapies aim to regulate the overactive immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. without weakening the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. as a whole. Such innovative approaches could enable a more effective and gentler treatment of episcleritis in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Episcleritis in Dogs? Episcleritis is an inflammation of the layer between the scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front. and the conjunctiva of the eyeball in dogs. This condition leads to redness, Swelling, and discomfort in the affected eye.
What symptoms do dogs with episcleritis show? Typical symptoms include redness and Swelling of the eye, increased blinking, sensitivity to light, and in some cases, increased tearing. The affected eye may also be painful.
What are the causes of episcleritis in dogs? The exact causes are not yet fully understood. It is believed that a dysregulation of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., genetic predispositions, and environmental factors may play a role.
Which dog breeds are particularly susceptible to episcleritis? Some studies suggest that certain breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniel or the Golden Retriever, are more frequently affected. This could be due to genetic factors.
How is episcleritis diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made by a thorough clinical examination of the eye by a veterinarian. Special tests may also be performed to rule out other eye conditions.
How is episcleritis treated in dogs? Treatment usually involves the administration of anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain., such as corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions.. In more severe cases, immunosuppressiveImmunosuppressive agents are medications or substances that specifically suppress the activity of the immune system. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, and to prevent rejection reactions after transplants. drugs may also be used.
Can episcleritis be cured in dogs? Episcleritis can often be treated successfully, but there is a risk of relapse. Continuous monitoring and treatment by a veterinarian are important to minimize the risk of complications.
Can I take preventive measures to prevent episcleritis in my dog? While specific preventive measures are limited, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups, can help promote your dog’s overall well-being.
Are there home remedies that can help treat episcleritis? It is important that the treatment of episcleritis is carried out under veterinary supervision. Home remedies alone are usually not sufficient and, in the worst case, can worsen the symptoms.
Are complications common with episcleritis? If episcleritis is not treated in time, it can lead to complications such as chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. inflammation or impaired vision. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to avoid such complications.