Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Foal limping on back legs - what is coxofemoral dysplasia?
By Kneipp, M L A et al.·Published in Journal of equine veterinary science·2025·Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Bilateral coxofemoral dysplasia in a Mangalarga Marchador foal.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A four-month-old Mangalarga Marchador foal was found to have a serious condition called bilateral coxofemoral dysplasia, which means that the hip joints were not developing properly, leading to instability. The foal showed signs of lameness in its back legs, a hunched back, loss of muscle in the hindquarters, and was very sensitive when its back legs were moved. Unfortunately, the diagnosis was confirmed only after the foal passed away and a post-mortem examination was done. This case emphasizes the need for early detection and monitoring of this condition in young horses.
Abstract
Coxofemoral dysplasia is a condition characterized by the abnormal development and flattening of the femoral head and deformities in the acetabulum, leading to joint instability. Although described in various animal species, it is uncommon and rarely reported in horses. This article presents a case of incapacitating coxofemoral dysplasia diagnosed in a four-month-old foal Mangalarga Marchador, which exhibited lameness in the hind limbs, thoracolumbar kyphosis, gluteal muscle atrophy, and pronounced sensitivity during pelvic limb flexion. The clinical diagnosis indicative of bilateral coxofemoral dysplasia was confirmed through post-mortem examination. This case report highlights the importance of awareness and monitoring for early detection of coxofemoral dysplasia in foals.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39643144/