Health Condition

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental orthopedic disorder affecting the cartilage in joints, most commonly the shoulder, causing pain and lameness.

Detailed Description

OCD results from a failure of endochondral ossification, leading to cartilage flaps or loose bodies in the joint. It is influenced by genetics, rapid growth, and nutrition, and can cause chronic joint pain if untreated.

Common Symptoms

Lameness
Joint swelling
Pain on manipulation

Management Options

Rest and restricted activity
Surgical removal of cartilage flaps
Weight management

Frequently Asked Questions

Is OCD hereditary?

Yes, OCD has a hereditary component with environmental influences.

How is OCD treated?

Surgery is often curative for OCD.

Is OCD painful?

Yes, OCD causes joint pain and lameness.

Can OCD be prevented?

Through appropriate nutrition and breeding practices.

Is OCD common in all breeds?

OCD is more common in rapidly growing large and medium breeds.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

4–12 months

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

Radiographs; Arthroscopy

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Preventative Measures

Avoid overfeeding and rapid growth in puppies; Screening breeding stock

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Related Conditions

Elbow dysplasia, Panosteitis

Affected Breeds

Australian Cattle Dog

Prevalence: 1% Severity: 2/5

OCD is less common in Australian Cattle Dogs than in some large breeds, but still occurs and should be considered in young, lame dogs.

Giant Schnauzer

Prevalence: 5% Severity: 3/5

Giant Schnauzers are predisposed to OCD due to rapid growth and genetic factors; prevalence is higher than average for large breeds.

Great Dane

Prevalence: 3.5% Severity: 3/5

Great Danes have a higher than average risk for OCD, especially during rapid growth phases.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

OCD is a breed concern in GSMDs, with higher than average prevalence among large breeds.

Kuvasz

Kuvasz are at higher risk for OCD due to their rapid growth and large size. Sudden lameness in a rapidly growing Kuvasz puppy may be an early sign.

Saint Bernard

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 3/5

Saint Bernards are among the top breeds affected by OCD, especially in the shoulder.

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