Episcleritis is the redness of white part of the eye, called episclera. It is an inflammation of the episcleral tissue lying adjacent to the eyeball. The deep white tissue that comprises the firm outer layer of the eye is called the sclera, and the tissue above the sclera and extending away from it is the episcleral tissue. Episcleritis may also involve the conjunctiva, which is the thin tissue on the surface of the eye, and usually involves the tissue immediately beneath the conjunctiva. It can be focal (limited to a small area) and marked with nodes, or diffuse (widespread) and involving the entire circumference of the eye. Episcleritis may affect one or both eyes.
Episcleritis is a benign condition that can be treated with topical ointments or eye drops.
Focal episcleritis appears as a small, pink, painless, raised mass over the white of the eye. In the diffuse state, the inflammation will spread to other parts of the eye causing redness and irritation. The dog may also experience eye pain, show signs of discomfort, rub its eye frequently, have discharge, or even close the affected eye.
