Multiple congenital ocular defects in the Akita dog.

Microphthalmia, congenital cataracts, posterior lenticonus, and retinal dysplasia were observed in members of 3 litters of Akita puppies thought to be related to a common male ancestor. The electroretinograms of 3 clinically affected puppies were normal. Histological examination of 6 microphthalmic animals revealed nuclear and cortical cataract with multiple retinal folds and rosettes predominantly overlying the tapetum lucidum. Posterior lenticonus was observed histologically in 3 of the 6 puppies.