In this VetGirl podcast, we discuss Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration (SARDS), a condition in dogs in which total blindness occurs acutely, usually over days to weeks. Diagnosis of SARDS is made in cases of acute vision loss with an otherwise normal eye exam, and a flat-line electroretinogram (or ERG) recording is confirmatory. Multiple investigations into the pathogenesis of SARDS have failed to identify an underlying cause.1-4 The average age at diagnosis is about 8 years, and approximately 60% of cases are female dogs.5 The Dachshund, Miniature Schnauzer, and mixed-breed dogs are most commonly affected. 4 The blindness from SARDS is considered permanent, with no reported successful therapy.

In addition to blindness, about 40% of dogs with SARDS demonstrate systemic clinical signs of polyuria/polydipsia, polyphagia, and weight gain. These signs may develop prior to the onset of blindness, or shortly thereafter.5,6 Serum biochemical abnormalities including elevated cholesterol, AST, ALT, and ALP are also commonly reported. Despite the clinical resemblance to hyperadrenocorticism, it is very rarely confirmed in SARDS patients.4,7