A nictitans gland prolapse is an abnormal flipping out of position of the tear gland located behind the third eyelid or nictitans.

Certain breeds of dogs are prone to developing a nictitans gland prolapse.

Untreated prolapsed glands often become inflamed, cause excessive tearing and may obstruct vision.

What is a nictitans gland prolapse?

• A nictitans gland prolapse is an abnormal flipping out of position of the tear gland located behind the third eyelid or nictitans. This tear gland is responsible for 30-50% of the tears needed to lubricate the eye.

Cause

• The exact cause of this condition is unknown. It is believed that there is a weakness of the fibrous attachment that holds the gland in place. The gland may become cystic and flip out of normal position.
• Certain breeds of dogs are prone to developing a nictitans gland prolapse (although many other breeds may be affected) and include the American Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, Lhasa Apso, Shar pei, and giant breeds.
• Nictitans gland prolapse is more likely to occur in younger dogs than older dogs.

Symptoms

• Most pet owners will notice a pink tissue in the inside corner on the affected eye.
• Frequently, the gland will disappear and reappear without treatment before it finally remains in the abnormal position.

Treatment

• Untreated prolapsed glands often become inflamed, cause excessive tearing and may obstruct vision. Continued inflammation of the prolapsed gland may result in decreased tear production and dry eye syndrome.
• Simple gland excision may result in dry eye, especially in breeds predisposed to dry eye. For this reason, the recommended treatment is surgical replacement of the gland into its normal position rather than removal.
• Occasionally complications associated with nictitans gland prolapse surgery occur. Approximately 5% of dogs have recurrent gland prolapse after surgery. A repeat surgery is recommended if this occurs.
• Nictitans swelling and ocular discharge is common for 5 to 7 days after surgery.