Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) in Dogs

What is Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)?

 Osteochondritis dissecans, commonly known as OCD, is a disease of the cartilage that can affect various joints in a dog.

OCD mainly strikes large-breed dogs, and is fairly common in Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards. Not all big breeds are vulnerable: OCD is less likely to affect Doberman Pinschers, Collies, and Siberian Huskies.

Who gets OCD?

 CollieOCD is primarily a problem in large or giant breed dogs. It has been reported in small dogs and cats, though it is not very common. It affects male dogs more frequently than females, most likely due to the males' larger size and increased stress on the joint. It generally occurs when the animal is between 4 and 10 months of age, though it can show up in older dogs. There are several breeds that despite being larger breeds have decreased incidences of the disease including the Doberman Pinscher, Collie, and Siberian Husky. 

 What are the Causes of Osteochondritis Dissecans

•   Unknown 

•   Appears to be genetically acquired 

•   Disruption in supply of blood to the bone or through the bone

•   Nutritional deficiencies 

 When it’s time to see a vet

 It’s fairly easy to notice if your dog has OCD. First, be aware if your dog is one of the large breeds prone to the condition. If so, watch for any of these signs :  

•   Limping 

•  Favoring one paw or leg while walking or even when lying down *Swelling at the shoulder or, more rarely, the elbows and knees 

• Pain when trying to extend a swollen joint A vet can make a solid diagnosis with an exam and some X-rays

 How is OCD diagnosed? 

Diagnosis is based on history, physical exam, and radiographs (x-rays). On physical exam, we notice joint pain. For instance, most healthy dogs show no resistance when their shoulder joint is fully flexed and extended. However, if they have an OCD lesion in their shoulder, they may resist shoulder manipulation and may even cry out in pain when it is attempted. In addition, this flexion and extension of the shoulder joint may worsen the lameness. Radiographs of the affected joint are taken to confirm the diagnosis. The dog is often sedated so that full relaxation of the joint can be obtained. Several views of the affected joint and the healthy joint on the other side are taken for comparison. A change of the bone underneath the damaged cartilage is often visible. If the radiographs are not confirmatory but OCD is still suspected, radiographs may be taken again in 2 to 3 weeks.

Symptoms and Types

• Lameness (most common symptom)
• Onset of lameness may be sudden or gradual, and may involve one or more limbs
• Lameness becomes worse after exercise
• Unable to bear weight on affected limb
• Swelling at joints
• Pain in limb, especially on manipulation of joints involved
• Wasting of muscles with chronic lameness

summary 

OCD is a cartilage problem that affects young large and giant breed dogs. It is due to several factors including genetics, trauma, rapid growth, and nutrition. Treatment is either conservative including strict rest, or surgical removal of the damaged cartilage. Prevention is aimed at good genetic selection, reduced activity, and careful feeding.