ElbowDysplasia (ED) is a condition that also occurs in German Longhairs.
We talk about ED when one of the following conditions is present in an elbow joint:
- OCD (Osteochondritis dissecans): the loosening of a piece of cartilage of the upper arm.
- LPC (Los processus coronoidus): the loosening of a piece of bone from the ulna.
- LPA (Los processus anconeus): loosening of a piece of bone at a different location of the ulna.
- Incongruence: a joint that does not "fit" properly due to an ulna that is too long or too short in relation to the radius.
There may also be multiple conditions in a joint.
Consequences ED
Each of the aforementioned abnormalities leads to osteoarthritis after several months. Osteoarthritis is characterized by:
- Changes of the joint (bone reactions) that may occur during the disease process.
- The permanence of change.
- Start pain: lame steps just after getting up.
- 'Walking through it': walking better after some time.
- A relapse after much exertion.
Characterization rash
In determining severity, the standards of the "International Elbow Working Group" are followed. The worst joint determines the final score.
Several outcomes are possible:
- Free
- Grade 1
- Grade 2
- Grade 3
For more information on ED, visit the Dutch Kennel Club's site.