Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
German Shepherd dog with multiple bone fractures linked to lead
By Cole, G et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2015·Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Multiple pathological fractures and delayed union associated with lead exposure in a German Shepherd Dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
An 8-year-old male German Shepherd was brought in for broken bones in both front legs. X-rays showed weak bones and multiple fractures, and tests revealed high levels of lead in the dog's bones, which can weaken them. The vet performed surgery to stabilize the fractures, but the dog continued to have issues with healing even months later. After 15 months, the dog returned with more fractures, which were treated without surgery. This case highlights the importance of checking for lead exposure in dogs with unusual fractures and slow healing.
People also search for: German Shepherd fractures · dog lead exposure symptoms · dog bone healing problems · why are my dog's bones weak · dog fracture treatment options
Abstract
CASE REPORT: An 8-year-old 40.8-kg intact male German Shepherd Dog was evaluated for bilateral antebrachial fractures. Radiographs revealed osteopenia and comminuted proximal diaphyseal fractures of the left radius and ulna, and proximal articular fracture of the right ulna. A dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan confirmed decreased bone mineral density. Bone mineral analysis collected at the time of definitive surgical repair demonstrated high lead concentration. Analysis further demonstrated normal bone calcium and phosphorus concentrations. Serum lead concentration was normal. The left radial and ulnar fractures were surgically stabilised with an external fixator. The right ulnar fracture was splinted. The left antebrachial fractures were palpably unstable at 12 weeks after surgery. Moderate callus formation and incomplete bone union were present at 17 weeks postoperatively. The dog was re-presented 15 months later for right metacarpal and left metatarsal fractures, which were managed conservatively. Complete bone union of the right radial and ulnar fractures was not present at that time. CONCLUSION: Excessive lead accumulation in bone should be considered as a differential diagnosis for increased susceptibility to pathologic fracture and delayed fracture healing in dogs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26412119/