Skeletal Diseases Flashcards
Osteoarthritis
What is the aetiology?
Most common cause of lameness
May develop as a result of underlying deformity or trauma e.g., cruciate rupture, fracture, hip/elbow dysplasia, etc.
Osteoarthritis
What is the pathophysiology?
Characterised by degeneration of articular cartilage often associated with the formation of new bone at joint surface
May have a gradual onset, but may also occur acutely.
Osteoarthritis can be a primary disease of joint cartilage, but is more often secondary to abnormal stresses on joints
Osteoarthritis
What are the clinical signs?
Stiffness/lameness (worse after rest) – less common in cats
Reluctant to jump up/climb
Reduced ROM of affected joint
+/- swelling
Alteration to gait
Muscle atrophy in affected limb(s)
May affect appetite and personality/behaviour dependent on severity
Osteoarthritis
What are the diagnostic techniques?
History and examination findings
Radiography of effected limb
Arthroscopy
CT/MRI
Synovial fluid analysis
