Keratoconjunctivitis sicca in the dog associated with the administration of salicylazosulphapyridine (sulphasalazine)

Abstract

Thirteen cases of iatrogenic and bilateral keratoconjunctivitis sicca following the administration of the sulphonamide salicylazosulphapyridine (sulphasalazine) for the treatment of colitis were studied. No breed, age or sex incidence was noted in this series, unlike in keratoconjunctivitis sicca cases due to other causes. The lacrimotoxic effect of sulphasalazine was permanent except in one case and it is suggested that dogs on this drug should be monitored for tear secretion at regular intervals. Reports of a similar association between keratoconjunctivitis sicca and this drug and between the disease and other sulphonamides and compounds are discussed.