Case in Practice #116

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 Case in Practice #116

Findings: Bilaterally, there is a poorly defined area of increase in medullary opacity involving the
proximal diaphysis of the radius and ulna. This is more marked on the right where it extends until the
mid diaphysis. The endosteum of the proximal radius and ulna is bilaterally roughened and there is
solid periosteal reaction giving the cortex a thickened appearance.

Diagnosis: Bilateral panosteitis.

Outcome: The patient was started on analgesic therapy and improved

Further comments: Panosteitis is a self-limiting disease which affects mainly the diaphysis of the
long bones of large and giant breed dogs. The aetiology of the disease is not known. Although several
breeds and mixed-breed dogs have been diagnosed with this condition, German Shepherd Dogs
seem to be over-represented. Affected dogs are usually between 5 and 18 months of age, although
the condition has been seen in dogs up to 5 years old. Clinical signs can be subtle and the disease can
be difficult to differentiate from joint pain. Patients often present with a history of shifting limb
lameness and pain that appears to be cyclical or recurrent.

Kirberger RM, McEvoy FJ. BSAVA manual of canine and feline musculoskeletal imaging. British Small
Animal Veterinary Association; 2016.

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