Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) in a three-year-old German shepherd

Abstract

An unusual case of forelimb lameness in a three-year-old German Shepherd has been described. An incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) in both elbows has been diagnosed, which is a rare condition in this breed. The original radiographs and clinical examination were inconclusive. The diagnosis was established after scintigraphy proving elbow involvement and followed by a CT examination of both elbows. An arthroscopic examination showed a cleft in the articular cartilage between both humeral condyles. Because of the absence of lameness at the moment of admittance, initially conservative treatment was performed, which consisted of rest and avoiding trauma. The dog remained lameness-free during one year, whereafter he showed severe lameness in the left front leg. Although a second CT examination showed some progress of the lesions, it was decided to treat the left elbow with forage and physiotherapy consisting of laser treatment and therapeutic ultrasound. The dog responded favourably to the therapy and remains free of lameness to date. The optimal treatment of this disease remains debatable but the results of the treatment of this patient suggest that forage combined with physiotherapy could offer a justifiable option.

Keywords

• Computed tomography
• Dog
• Forelimb lameness
• Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle
• Orthopaedics