Elbow Dysplasia
Overview:
Elbow dysplasia is the most common cause of forelimb lameness in large and giant breed dogs. This is a multifaceted disease with an inherited genetic component and is the result of abnormal bone growth of the radius, ulna and humerus, excessive joint stress, or abnormal cartilage development in the young dog. Elbow dysplasia includes several conditions. The three main types are fragmented coronoid process (FCP), osteochondrosis (OCD), and ununited anconeal process (UAP). These ultimately lead to progressive arthritis of the elbow joint, pain and loss of function.
Warning Signs/Symptoms:
Dogs affected by elbow dysplasia can begin to show signs at 5 months of age or as late as 4-6 years. Symptoms include intermittent and persistent lameness, decreased range of motion, elbow swelling and joint pain. Lameness is usually worse after exercise and typically never completely resolves with rest. Often both fore limbs are affected making detection difficult, as the dog’s gait is not asymmetric.
What to do:
Seek veterinary advice and contact your dog’s breeder.
What to expect at the vet:
Your veterinarian will take a thorough history and will perform a gait analysis. He will perform a physical exam by palpating the affected areas and putting the elbow(s) through full range of motion exercises. Most veterinarians will likely recommend x-rays, a CT scan, or arthroscopy of the elbow.
Treatment/Prevention:
Dogs with mild signs of elbow dysplasia may be treated successfully with medical management including weight loss, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and injections of polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (Adequan). More invasive therapies include intra-articular injections of hylauronic acid, cortisone or regenerative stem cell therapy. More severe cases may require surgery.
References:
Canine Elbow Dysplasia. American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Canine Elbow Dysplasia- Sherman O. Canapp Jr., DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVS
Elbow Dysplasia. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
Elbow Dysplasia in the Dog-Investigation and Treatment- S. Langley-Hobbs, MA BVetMed, DSAS (Ortho), DipECVS, FHEA, FRCVS
Tips for Evaluating Dogs with Elbow Dysplasia- Kevin P. Benjamino, DVM, DACVS-SA