Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
German Shepherd dog with lameness from lumbosacral vertebra problem
By Ali Reza Ghadiri et al.·Published in Iranian Journal of Veterinary Surgery·2011·Departments of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran., IR
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Original publication title: Asymmetric Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra (LTV) Type-3 in a German Shepherd Dog: A Case Report
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 7-year-old female German Shepherd was brought in for intermittent limping and pain in her lower back that had lasted for two weeks. After examining her and taking X-rays, the vet found she had an asymmetric lumbosacral transitional vertebra, a condition that can lead to serious back problems. The recommended treatment was surgery to relieve her pain, but the owner chose euthanasia due to the high cost of the procedure. This condition is hereditary and common in German Shepherds, so it's important for owners to be aware of it when considering breeding.
People also search for: German Shepherd back pain · lumbosacral transitional vertebra treatment · dog limping causes
Abstract
Case Description- In the present study, a seven-year-old German shepherd female dog was referred to Veterinary Hospital of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, with a two-week history of intermittent lameness and lumbosacral pain.<br /> Clinical Findings- On general examination, the vital parameters were within normal limits. A ventrodorsal (VD) radiograph of the pelvis and lumbosacral spine was taken and asymmetric lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LTV) type-3 was diagnosed. The authors describe a case of LTV in detail, on the basis of the clinical and radiological findings.<br /> Treatment and Outcome- In the present study, we suggested surgery (laminectomy), but the owner requested euthanasia for the high-cost of medical care.<br /> Clinical Relevance- Lumbosacral transitional vertebra is a heritable disease that is frequently diagnosed in German shepherd dogs. This disorder is a risk factor for the development of vertebral instability and cauda equina syndrome (CES). This condition is thought to have clinical significance and should be selected against in breeding, especially in the German shepherds. It should be considered not to use these dogs as working dogs.
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