Note - with all medical questions, always check with your
veterinarian)
http://www.thnt.com/thnt/story/0,21282,804380,00.html
About Your Pet 9.08.03: What is elbow dysplasia?
Published in the Home News Tribune 9/08/03
Q. I have heard of hip dysplasia, but my dog was just diagnosed with
elbow dysplasia. Can you tell me more about this?
A. Elbow dysplasia can be a congenital condition usually found in
large breed dogs such as German shepherds, Labrador retrievers, and
Great Danes. It also can manifest itself due to hormonal influences,
dietary issues, or trauma. The medical term is an Ununited Anconeal
Process (UAP). The anconeal process is a part of the ulna in the
elbow that forms the outer edge of the joint with the humerus. Around
11 to 12 weeks of age, this part of the ulna is actually separate as
it forms bone by itself. It then attaches and fuses with the ulna at
around 4 to 5 months of age. This is a normal growth pattern.
Therefore, a diagnosis of UAP cannot be made until that time.
UAP usually presents itself as intermittent lameness on one side or
both sides typically when a dog is between six and 12 months old.
Some owners may notice stiffness in the morning or after a rest.
Sometimes the elbow joint may be swollen or the dog may have an
awkward gait. This separation of bone as part of the joint causes the
joint to be more loose than normal which can then produce secondary
arthritis and degenerative joint disease. Most cases should respond
with confinement and limited exercise if a problem exists. More
severe cases may need surgery to help stabilize this joint. Follow up
with your veterinarian for a progress exam to assess the condition of
your dog.
This column addresses new developments in animal care as well as
issues that New Jersey veterinarians encounter in their practices.
The information is prepared as a public service by the New Jersey
Veterinary Medical Association. For more information, visit
http://www.njvma.org. Questions may be submitted to All Things
Animal, 66 Morris Ave., Suite 2A, Springfield, NJ 07081.
Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Sep 12, 2003