A really classic orthopedic case for this week. This one is a 9-month-old male Labrador Retriever with mild forelimb lameness.
Findings
On a lateral radiograph of the right forelimb, there is increased mineral opacity in the medulla of the humerus and the radius. The humeral lesion is focal, and is located several centimeters proximal to the elbow. The radial lesion is more diffuse with a less well-defined zone of transition.Diagnosis
PanosteitisDiscussion
Panosteitis is a disease of growing dogs in which inflammation of the medullary tissues leads to scarring and sclerosis. German Shepherd dogs are predisposed. The disorder can affect multiple long bones at different times, resulting in shifting lameness. It is rare to see panosteitis in dogs over two years of age. It resolves with symptomatic treatment. The left front limb was more mildly affected in this dog, as were both femurs.- Muir, P., Dubielzig, R.R., & Johnson, K.A. (1996). Panosteitis. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practicing Veterinarian, 18(1), 29-33.