Radiological evaluation of spondylosis deformans in the lumbar and lumbosacral vertebrae of dogs: breed, age, and  gender associations

Dž. Hadžijunuzović-Alagić; F. Tandir; B. Čengić; L. Velić; S. Šerić-Haračić; N. Hadžimusić

doi:10.30972/vet.3628509

Authors

Dž. Hadžijunuzović-Alagić Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6950-2450
F. Tandir Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9184-592X
B. Čengić Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9020-8435
L. Velić Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8764-7023
S. Šerić-Haračić Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9102-3467
N. Hadžimusić Universidad de Sarajevo. Facultad de Veterinarias

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30972/vet.3628509

Keywords:

Spine, spondylosis deformans, dogs, radiology, computed tomography

Abstract

Spondylosis deformans (SD) is a common form of degenerative spinal disease in dogs, characterized by
osseous bridging between vertebral bodies. This study focused on the lumbar and lumbosacral regions of
the spine and analyzed radiographic records of 35 dogs of various breeds and age groups over a 12-month
period. Computed tomography (CT) was selectively employed in cases where radiographic interpretation
was inconclusive. The objective was to determine lesion localization and assess associations with breed, age,
and gender. Findings showed that German Shepherds were most frequently diagnosed with SD, followed
by Labrador Retrievers and mixed-breed dogs. Age distribution indicated that no cases were observed in
dogs aged 1-2 years, while the highest prevalence occurred in the 7-10-year age group. Lesion localization
data revealed that the L4-L6 region was most commonly affected. These results highlight the age-related
progression of SD and its predilection for the lumbar spine, offering valuable insights for clinical assessment
and management in veterinary practice.

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