Basenji Health Information - Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)

Description

Persistent Pupillary Membrane is a condition where the fetal membrane of the eye does not completely reabsorb. It is extremely common in Basenjis. This disorder does not progress, and in fact often puppies with mild PPM become normal as they get older.

Testing

It is a good idea for breeders to have an ACVO certified veterinary ophthalmologist check their puppies at 7-9 weeks of age, to determine the presence or absence of PPM. Most PPM is not associated with visual problems, although very severe PPM can cause visual difficulties. However, PPM that severe has become very uncommon as breeders breed away from it. Breeders should be aware of the PPM status of their dogs.

A Basenji with iris to iris PPM can receive a Canine Eye Registration Foundationcertificate. All other grades of PPM (iris to lens, iris to cornea, and iris sheets) cannot. Most Basenji breeders will not disqualify a dog from breeding solely due to mild PPM.

PPM can get better, but does not get worse. A CERF exam will show current PPM status, but it does not tell you whether or not the dog can produce offspring with PPM.