A case series and review of canine idiopathic osteonecrosis of the jaw

TL;DR

This paper examines a rare jaw disease in dogs, comparing it to human osteonecrosis, and identifies patterns in lesion locations and lack of clear surgical triggers.

Contribution

The study is the first to systematically evaluate risk factors and comorbidities in canine idiopathic osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Findings

Lesions were commonly found in the caudal maxilla and ipsilateral zygomatic arch.

Dental surgery did not always precede lesion development in the studied cases.

Abstract

Idiopathic osteonecrosis of the jaw in dogs is a rare disease. Research into human osteonecrosis of the jaw has increased considerably in recent years revealing numerous underlying risk factors and comorbidities. The goal of this case series was to evaluate similar risk factors and comorbidities in dogs. The medical records from 10 cases were retrospectively reviewed for patient signalment, diagnostic results and treatment. Most cases had either cone beam or conventional computed tomography performed which allowed a detailed evaluation of maxillofacial structures. In this cohort, lesions had a predilection for the caudal maxilla and ipsilateral zygomatic arch and dental surgery did not always precede development of lesions. More cases and additional diagnostics will be needed to uncover the etiology of this disease.

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