Species: Dog
Condition: Hypoplasia of Dens
Organ System: Musculoskeletal
A condition that occurs when the bones in the neck vertebrae (atlas and axis), slip up and down, resulting in instability and compression of the spinal cord. Trauma is a potential cause, however it is often viewed as either a congenital or developmental deformity in small dog breeds. The first obvious sign is neck pain which can be made worse when the neck is flexed. Depending on the severity of spinal cord compression, affected dogs may also exhibit clumsiness, paralysis, and even death. Treatment is based on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases can be treated conservatively while surgery may be indicated for severe symptoms.
Breeds exposed to Hypoplasia of Dens – Research Reference
German Shepherd Cross – (Lewis et al. 1997)
Alsatian Cross – (Lewis et al. 1997)
German Shepherd – (Lewis et al. 1997)
Alsatian – (Lewis et al. 1997)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Hypoplasia of Dens or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
