Canine Elbow Dysplasia
By: Brigitte Rhinehart
Manifested as: OCD, FCP(fragmented coronoid process), UAP (ununited anconeal
process), DJD (degenerative joint disease, note that DJD may also occur in the cartilage
of other joints). The form most often diagnosed in Swissys appears to be DJD, a
slowly progressive form of cartilage degeneration usually caused by trauma or
abnormal wear on the joint. DJD is classified as primary (idiopathic or no
known cause) or secondary (a known predisposing cause or injury exists).
Anecdotal evidence suggests that most Swissys diagnosed with DJD during
radiographs of the elbows for OFA certification fall into the mildest form
grade I. They have never displayed any clinical signs such as pain, stiffness,
decreased range of motion or lameness. With DJD, genetic predisposition cannot
be established as definitely as with other orthopedic conditions. Hence, there
is a wide range of opinions among Swissy breeders with regard to breeding a dog
affected with DJD grade I. There is, however, general consensus among breeders
not to use Swissys with DJD beyond grade I as well as with any of the other
forms of ED.
By: Brigitte Rhinehart
Manifested as: OCD, FCP(fragmented coronoid process), UAP (ununited anconeal
process), DJD (degenerative joint disease, note that DJD may also occur in the cartilage
of other joints). The form most often diagnosed in Swissys appears to be DJD, a
slowly progressive form of cartilage degeneration usually caused by trauma or
abnormal wear on the joint. DJD is classified as primary (idiopathic or no
known cause) or secondary (a known predisposing cause or injury exists).
Anecdotal evidence suggests that most Swissys diagnosed with DJD during
radiographs of the elbows for OFA certification fall into the mildest form
grade I. They have never displayed any clinical signs such as pain, stiffness,
decreased range of motion or lameness. With DJD, genetic predisposition cannot
be established as definitely as with other orthopedic conditions. Hence, there
is a wide range of opinions among Swissy breeders with regard to breeding a dog
affected with DJD grade I. There is, however, general consensus among breeders
not to use Swissys with DJD beyond grade I as well as with any of the other
forms of ED.
