Collie eye anomaly: screening and interpretation

Key facts

Abbreviation

CEA [source]

Inheritance described for the tested variant

Autosomal recessive [source]

Assessment distinction

DNA result and clinical eye findings are complementary [source]

Understand CEA

UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory describes CEA as abnormal development of internal eye structures, with presentation ranging from little apparent effect to significant impairment. The name does not mean that every affected dog looks the same or that an owner can assess severity by watching a familiar task.

Read the genetic result

The laboratory describes the tested inheritance as autosomal recessive and distinguishes no detected copies, one-copy carriers and two-copy results. Preserve the exact laboratory wording and variant tested. A carrier result is not the same as a two-copy result, and this particular test does not rule out every possible eye disorder.

Pair genetics with clinical evidence

Use an appropriate veterinary eye examination to assess the dog’s eyes and vision. UC Davis notes complexity in the relationship between the tested variant and some structural findings. Do not convert a DNA category into a prediction of exact visual ability or use normal-looking work as proof that screening is unnecessary.

Keep decisions traceable

For breeding discussions, supply both parents’ original reports and verified identities to the relevant professional. For ownership and work, record observed visual concerns separately from inherited status. A dog becoming disorientated or having an eye problem needs assessment on its own merits, regardless of a previous panel. Explain limitations honestly when sharing a profile instead of presenting CEA testing as a whole-eye-health guarantee.

Common questions

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory: CEA (opens in a new tab)

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