Shar Pei are known to suffer from primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and are also affected by primary lens luxation (PLL). In the Shar Pei both POAG and PLL are autosomal recessive inherited disorders and appear to be caused by the same mutation.
Primary glaucoma is a painful and blinding disease associated with high pressure inside the eye. It is an inherited condition and is subdivided into two types: primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary closed angle glaucoma (PCAG).
In POAG/PLL, glaucoma results from reduced drainage of fluid from the eye. This causes a build-up of pressure which leads to pain and blindness.
The eyes become enlarged and the lens of the eye becomes wobbly or falls completely out of its normal position. Most dogs become affected at approximately 4 - 6 years of age.
A DNA test is available to identify the mutation.